tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17881629052852683002018-03-06T05:03:00.593-05:00Mella's ViewMy, What Big Eyes You Have!A Girlnoreply@blogger.comBlogger581125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-29807315730620165672014-07-31T16:42:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:42:51.441-04:00Tivo: Setup for Idiots and Tivo Series 2 DT FeaturesT ivo, Tivo...where to begin? I loved you one day, and hated you the next, then I loved you again, then I hated you... <br /> I bought the <b>Tivo Series 2 DT model</b> (dual tuner) at the official Tivo website, thinking that spending more would mean better service. Boy was I wrong. (I'll get into that later). <br /> My Tivo came neatly packed in a standard ups box, and inside of that box was the official Tivo box, and inside of that box.. was the Tivo box. Yeah the one you plug in. <br /> Anyways, I figured life would be simple; I mean they make it look so simple online and on TV. Just plug it in, and you're ready to experience TV like never before...or some cheap marketing slogan like that. <br /> Anyways, I plugged mine in, and...and...a dud. The thing fizzed out in less that 24 hours, and after spending 3 hours on the phone with a service technician I finally got the approval, that my box was a lemon. The guy had me doing numerous tests that consisted of plugging in, unplugging, re-plugging, plug plug plug... I was going nuts, and the guy annoyed me. He just couldn't take my issue and believe it. The damn thing is broken okay! I know! It does not work! <br /> So instead of being a great reputable company they tell me they can not replace my box until they receive the broken one first. To me that was shady as hell. I had already waited a week for it to come in the mail, now I have to wait a week till they get the broken one, and now another week for the new one. YAY ME! <br /> After arguing for a good hour wanting an explanation on why I have to wait I still did not get my way. It's the Tivo way or the highway. And good luck canceling. I was going to do that and say screw it. But they get yah. If you cancel you have to pay them a $150 early cancellation fee. Lovely company right folks? <br /> So 2 weeks later I finally get the dang box. By now I'm so annoyed with the company I barely even wanted to hook this one up. Anyways when I did I noticed that the box called for 2 input output cables and Tivo only includes one. So if you find yourself having issues hooking up keep in mind you need 2 of these cables and not just one. Tivo the cheap dirt bags they are think it's cute to have people running back and fourth to Radio shack just to hook up to their services. <br /> This is exactly what I ended up doing. You see if you hook your Tivo up to your wireless home network you can schedule recording on their site. Pretty cool, but good luck with that. You are better of hooking up using a telephone line. However if you are unlucky like me, you will find that you have no choice but to hook up a wireless network. And I'm here to help because TIVO, has a bunch of fools who give you the circle run around. <br /> You know what the circle run around is... let me explain. The circle run around is when no company is willing to take the blame. So when I had difficulty setting up the TIVO, I call them, and they tell me to call my Internet provider. The Internet provider tells me to call TIVO, but then TIVO says 'oh call the routers helpline'. Seeing how no one could help me, and TIVO just sent me in a circle of wasted time, I had to figure things out on my own using trial and error. <br /> <i>SO</i>... Here is the idiots guide on what you have to do if you want to set up TIVO to a wireless network. <br /> 1. Buy TIVO's $60 wireless adapter. Plug it into the back of your TIVO's USB hub. Then place the adapter somewhere high. <br /> 2. Buy a router. LINKSYS was easy to hook up, and I am a wireless network moron, and it took time but I figured it out . <br /> 3. Plug an Ethernet cable into the number 1 on the back of the router, and have this cables other end go into the modem. Then plug an another Ethernet cable into the slot that says 'Internet' on the router. Then take the other end and plug it into the back of the computer. <br /> 4. Go to <a href="http://www.linksys.com/">www.linksys.com</a> and download easylink. (You need this to install the router- <i>would of been nice if the manual said that. I had to call to figure this need step out</i>) Follow the easy steps that easylink asks you for, and remember your encryption key. <br /> 5. Then use the LINKSYS set up disc that came with the router. This is to recognize and setup the router. <br /> 6. Then go back to the TIVO and set up your wireless home network under manage and setting tab. <br /> Now if you are clueless you may see other network names magically pop up on your screen. Ignore these. They are signals from other routers in the neighborhood, and you cannot access them. <i>(Man I was confused!)</i><br /> 7. Plug in your network name. -You were prompted to choose a name when you use the setup CD. So choose that name on the TIVO list of networks. Or plug it in manually. Then you simply type in your encryption key using the Hexadecimal. <b><i>Remember that.</i></b> Alphanumeric will not work. <br /> Next you should get a screen on the TV that will display how strong your signal is. <b>YOU ARE FINALLY DONE!</b> You can now connect to TIVO. Phew! <br /> Now TIVO couldn't just help me out with some easy information on how to set this thing up. I mean their company makes something capable of going wireless, yet they don't know how to help a customer do it. <br /> <i>NOPE!</i> Instead <i>TIVO</i> will recommend you spend another <b><i>$300</i></b> to have the geek squad come over and hook it up for you. <i>NICE!</i> Thanks for the tip blah... but I will play with it until I electrocute myself. <br /> So after all is said and done with many trials and errors, the TIVO series 2 will cost you $220, the router another $40, the wireless adapter for TIVO $60, and 2 Ethernet cables that do not come with TIVO for another $35. <br /> Too bad TIVO does not let you know about all of that added garbage you need just to hook up. <i>That's some BS</i><i>!</i><br /> Next TIVO will need about an hour to download information and update the viewers guide. (Viewers guide is a list of tv shows). <br /> Now that TIVO is all set up, you can begin setting up show recordings. Now with the series 2 DT you can record 2 shows at the same time. But not 3. Don't worry though, because if yo schedule 3 shows all at the same times, TIVO will warn you and ask you what you want to do. You can then change which shows it will record. <br /> There is also a season pass. For instance, if you love <b>'THE SIMPLE LIFE'</b> or <b>'UFC'</b> you can set up a season pass to ensure that you will not miss any episodes while you are out. You can set the TIVO to record reruns and first runs, or just first runs. <br /> Once you have a list of shows you like saved to be recorded, once they are recorded you can pause, rewind and fast forward them. You can save them, or delete them as you please. <br /> Or you can burn them to DVD using TIVO DESKTOP which you can download at the TIVO site. <br /> <b><u>PAUSE LIVE TV:</u></b><br /> This feature is just okay, and it is really not as cool as it sounds. Yep, you can pause live TV. But you can not fast forward live TV. You can rewind it sure but not fast forward it, unless you have it paused for some time, then you may fast forward, but only up to the part that is airing. It's only handy when you get a phone call or need to go to the bathroom. The pause feature will only stay paused though for a half hour. So be aware. <br /> <b><u>THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN:</u></b><br /> This is where TIVO gets it's TIVO suggestions. If you like a show, or a movie you just watched hit the green thumbs up. If you hated it. ed thumbs down. TIVO supposedly stores this information, and will record things it thinks you may like. But this feature is flawed. Read on... <br /> <b><u>TIVO SUGGESTIONS:</u></b><br /> This seems to be the most annoying feature with TIVO. Now i I wanted to record a show I would of programmed TIVO to do so. However if nothing is recording TIVO will record something it thinks you like. However most of the time, even when I give a show a thumbs down, TIVO will still record it. It seems to think I like Ned's Declassified and SCRUBS. 2 shows I have never even cared about. <br /> <b><u>WISH LIST:</u></b><br /> Here in the system settings you will find wish list. You can add in your favorite actor or actress or the name of a movie you are waiting to see. Whenever the name comes up on the guide TIVO will record it. So say you are in love with VIN DIESEL... plug in his name, and TIVO will record anything involving him. Even news or talk shows he may be on. This is probably a favorite feature of mine... but it is flawed. I plugged in Lindsay Lohan as an actress on my wish list, knowing she would be on an E! True Hollywood that night. TIVO did not record it, and nothing else was set to record at that time, so there is no excuse as to why it did not record. <br /> <b><u>ISSUES: </u></b> <br /> Aside from going wireless being a major costly headache TIVO has another issue. CLARITY! They are aware of it too, because in TIVO's manage settings, there is an adjustment to soften the picture. However if you enable this setting, clarity is even worse. So leave it off. <br /> My usually TV picture was crystal clear, but once TIVO came around things were fuzzy, and just ugly looking. I called TIVO... and I was told to tighten the cables. I did so, and got nothing. My TV is not as clear as it used to be, but there is honestly nothing I can think of to improve it. I sure as hell am not going to buy an HDTV to accommodate TIVO. I expect TIVO to solve the problem, and not me once again. This is something TIVO really needs to work on, and it has nothing to do with loose cables. The TIVO manager looks crystal clear, yet the TV shows look like garbage. <br /> You're sacrifice, quality for quantity. (TV shows). <br /> <b><u>REASONS TO AVOID TIVO:</u></b><br /> 1. Other new shows don't stand a chance. If you are constantly fast forwarding through commercials how are you supposed to know when new shows that may interest you are coming out? <br /> 2. Setup will take approximately 3 days if you don't know what you are doing. <br /> 3. The price of TIVO increases when you find out you have to buy a whole slew of other devices to get it to work. Also if you hook up through the phone, the calls are not free. Costing more money. <br /> 4. Clarity is awful. <br /> 5. Technical support is ridiculous. First you get a robotic answering system that takes you through a bunch of yes no step questions before you get a live agent. HERE IS A TIP: When the robotic answering machine asks what your issue is keep saying AGENT. It makes the call go faster, and you get in touch with an agent much faster. <br /> 6. You can't fast forward live TV no matter how much the commercials say you can. You can pause live TV, but only fast forward up to where the show is left off live. <br /> <b><u>OVERALL:</u></b><br /> TIVO is a major headache to hook up, but I'm digging my service and what I am able to do with it. However once my year subscription runs out, I most likely will get the DVR recorder from my cablevision provider. <br /> <b><u>RECOMMENDATION:</u></b><br /> If you just bought one, it's too late to save you now. But for everyone else, just go buy a dvr recorder from your TV provider. TIVO is not worth the headache. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-43114923555884510142014-07-31T16:33:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:33:16.264-04:00Can You Handle a Bull Terrier?This past month my boyfriend and I decided to take a big plunge and buy a Bull Terrier. It was a breed he was always fond of, and since I already have my Yorkie, I figured, <i>why not?</i> It can't be that bad right? <i>Wrong!</i> Bull terriers require tons of training, patience, love, and obedience. <br /> Bull Terriers have gotten a bad reputation for themselves, and to be honest it's not the Bully's fault, it's the owners! <br /> Now before buying one on a whim lets consider these important factors: <br /> 1. Can you afford the Bully? Most '<i>healthy'</i> Bull Terriers will cost around $2,000. <br /> 2. Do you have time for your Bully? If you work a full time job, and are not able to give full attention to your Bull Terrier expect the dog to grow up with social issues, which when it comes down to it, means the dog will grow up to be shy, and afraid, and most likely will bite at anything that scares him or her. Thats right, even people. <br /> 3. Can you afford the Bull Terrier even after the cost of the dog? Bully's are the most greedy dog I have ever come across. It is greedy by nature, our Bully consumes at least $150 worth of food and training treats in just a month. Do you have that extra income for your Bully? If your dog gets sick, can you afford the $1,000 vet bill? or are you going to take the easy street out and have the dog put down. If these numbers scare you, don't even think about getting any dog for that matter. <br /> Bully's have a tendency to eat everything they see. I will sometimes find mine chewing on pieces of metal as if they are snacks, tin cans, plastic, crayons...you name it. If it is on the floor, this type of breed is going to pick it up and try to find a way to swallow it down. It's like the trash compactor breed. <br /> As funny as that may sound, think about the vet bill we will look forward to if we are not careful. Not only that the Bully could choke on something and die. So if you are really considering a Bull Terrier, and you have already made it to this step, answering yes to all of the above questions, make sure you always keep an eye on your dog. <br /> 4. Can you handle the Bull Terrier? Bull Terriers grow from 30-60lbs depending on whether or not you have a standard Bully or a mini Bully. Regardless of it's size and weight, this dog is a powerful dog. All of that weight is solid muscle. Walking this muscle machine can even prove to be a difficult task. <br /> Not only that, they are extremely stubborn dogs by nature, and training them requires tons of patience. <br /> Bully's like to roam, and you want to make sure you have a fence or at least are able to supervise the dog at ALL times when outdoors. <br /> 5. Bully's also have a reputation for hating other animals. This I have found to be true, but only <i>'other peoples animals';</i> so long as your Bull Terrier was raised with other animals within the house, they will get along just fine. However...if your Bully ever gets out of the yard, or if another animal wanders in...things could get ugly. <br /> Our Bully is always a happy go lucky dog, and he loves our other dogs, but the moment he went in for his first vet check I watched as our happy sweet baby went from good dog, to <i><b>"I want to eat your Pomeranian lady"</b></i> type attitude. So just be careful, and do be aware that even though your Bully adores your dogs and cats, his mentality may not be so kind towards other peoples animals. <br /> Now that all of that important information is all said and done, there is more...much, much more. <br /> For one, if you have decided you can take on the job of raising a Bully, your next step is finding a good breeder. Now the Bull terrier is a strong dog. They were designed to herd Bull originally. <br /> You want to be very careful when you buy your Bull Terrier. You see if the dogs parents were made to be fighting dogs, an evil streak could have been passed on to your dog, thus making him much more aggressive. You want to make sure you buy your Bull Terrier from a loving well known Bull Terrier breeder, a place you know where the Bully has been taken care of, and you want to know information about the parents. You do not want to purchase a Bully where it's parents were used as fighters or attack dogs. <br /> If a breeder is in a rush to sell you a Bully, walk away. They do not care for the dogs, and are only in with this breed to make a quick buck. A good breeder will inform you of everything I have already spoken of and more. They may even sound like they are talking you 'out' of getting the dog. They are not, they just want to make sure you are the right type of person to take care of this stubborn breed. <br /> TRAINING A BULLY: <br /> Now that you have your little bundle of joy, your first step is training. This should be done as soon as you get the puppy. Like I said, they are stubborn, and you want to start teaching them right from wrong from the get go. <br /> We use a special clicker that you can buy at Petco or any pet store. Because the Bull Terrier is so fond of food, it is actually very easy to train this type of breed based on treat rewards system. When our Bully does something good, we give him a treat. But before we give him the treat we click the clicker. He will run up, and sit right down and wait for the treat. <br /> It seriously only took about a week for him to get this trick down. He hears the click, he knows he is getting food. But what does he have to do to get the food. SIT! The Bull Terrier is actually extremely smart and is a fast learner so long as you have the time to teach. <br /> Now that he learned how to sit for a treat, his next level of training included sitting and giving the paw for the treat. He picked this trick up in about 2 weeks. Stubborn yes, but the ability to learn is phenomenal. <br /> With a treat reward system used while training the sky is the limit. His tricks will all be based on how much time and patience you have for him. Thankfully this breed loves to eat, so learning comes fast. <br /> However...<i>this breed likes to eat</i>... and eating too much means...obesity. That's right, the Bull Terrier is very prone to gaining weight quickly if you don;t monitor his intake. They are lazy by nature, and love to eat by nature, and too much of this type of nature could be bad for your dog. If you are using a treat system while training your Bull Terrier make sure they are diet treats. This type of dog will not care what the treat is, it's going to eat it. So make sure its a low fat or no fat snack. <br /> SOME MORE INFORMATION ON THE BULL TERRIER: <br /> Now I do not care how many people say they have owned a Bull Terrier for years, and they are such sweet dogs, and they would not harm a fly. Don't buy it. EVERY DOG has a wild streak, and if the situation arise the dog will attack to kill. Bully because they are so much stronger and a more powerful dog, would be more successful at making a kill than say a Yorkie. Therefore the bad reputation. Either way... ANY dog will attack and kill if needed. <br /> Bull Terriers have taken on this reputation as mean killing attack dogs only because they look scary. This is completely untrue unless you raise an attack dog, and what a shame that would be. If your dog ever bites someone, its getting put down. That shame and blame should not be put on the dog, ANY dog. The finger should solely be pointed at its handler. <br /> If your dog is bad, scold it, but do not beat it! You can beat a dog so much, till one day the dog beats back. Beating a dog will only guarantee an angry aggressive dog. A dog that will most likely bite at anything that moves too quickly. Even it's own owner. <br /> MORE TIPS: <br /> If you mix a bully in a home with smaller dogs, never ever leave the home with the bully out with the smaller dog. Dogs get excited when their masters come home, and this is the worst time for a fatal attack. One dog wants to get to the door faster in excitement, the other bites from excitement, and before you know it your walking into the middle of a blood bath. The little dog won't stand a chance. So even though your dog is friendly to your other smaller animals, don't ever leave them out alone together. That goes for any larger breed. <br /> Do not feed your Bully with other dogs. This is also another time when a huge fight could occur. Bully's are greedy. They <i><b>do not</b></i> like sharing. Give them their own separate bowl, or feed them in another room away from other dogs. <br /> Bull Terriers love people, and even when full grown they will have no problem jumping into your lap and sleeping there for hours. Our Bully does not seem to realize that he is far too big for lap naps. However, the Bully may love you to pieces, but you may want to keep an eye out on him around strangers. They love children also, but again... keep him away when other peoples children are over. Bully's are territorial. They tend to love there own, and nothing outside of their home. Honestly though this depends on the dog, and how it's raised. <br /> Our Bully loves children, but he is far too strong to play with smaller children, as this type of dog can get rough, but it can also take a good rough play from an older child. I wouldn't get a Bull Terrier if I had a toddler in the home. Older children are an okay. Anything younger than 5 avoid this type of dog. <br /> Bull Terriers also have really bad gas. Our Bully can fart just as loud as a grown man after eating Taco Bell. We have out Bully on gas busters a pill that is supposed to subside the gas. It does nothing. The farts are awful. <br /> Bull Terriers love to swim. Just take a look at how big their paws are at only 8 weeks old. Those paws are designed for swimming. This dog breed is actually in swimming contests in other countries. <br /> This breed makes for an excellent guard/attack dog even if it is not raised to attack. If it sees it's owner in trouble it will go through any length to save them. This breed will give its own life to save yours. So before people out there label this dog a bad evil killing machine, think again. This type of dog is a loyal companion for life, and would gladly give it's life for yours without thought. <br /> Having a Bull Terrier is like adopting a child. They have constant needs, and need constant supervision. You will love them and hate them, but overall if you ca handle this massive beautiful breed, your in for a lifetime of fun with your Bull Terrier. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-48103366274639149652014-07-31T16:31:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:31:55.578-04:00What I Hate About YouFor me HATE is not a strong word, and I'm clueless as to why so many feel it is, because I hate a lot, a lot.. lot lot, lot..... I'm not forgiving, and I don't forget. <br />So please no preaching about how I shouldn't be so negative (because there is PLENTY to be negative about- and since everyone else is SO POSITIVE -or so they say, I figured I should throw in some balance) Blah.. boggity.,, blah... .... Growllllll...Hooowwwlll.... <br /> Ol'righty then, here goes: <br /> I Hate: <br /> 1. When people have such foul breath, yet insist on moving closer to you as you move away while they ramble about what they had for breakfast. (Wait I know, a log of poo right?!) <br /> 2. When someone cuts me off and nearly hits me, as they give ME the finger. (Wait who cut whom off here? I'd like to cut something off of yours buddy!) <br /> 3. The sl*t that ran a red light and crashed into my friends car and killed her (5mo. old) unborn baby. (Yeah 'people' why don't you think about others before you pump your foot on the gas pedal trying to dodge through while it's still yellow, once it turns red it's a little too late to slow down don't you think. Think of others- and not just your selfish self! <br /> Yellow means SLOW down, not SPEED up. I hope that bi*ch rots in hell for the pain she's caused. And I hope dodging the red light for that cup off coffee at Sevs was worth it. <br /> Dog! Go bark at the moon. I won't ever forgive you, and neither will my friend. Your 'apology' means nothing. It can't bring back what you've so carelessly taken. <br /> 4. I also hate it when people mistake me for an employee at local stores I happen to be shopping in. Just because I am wearing nice professional business attire does NOT mean you can tap me on the shoulder and ask me get you down that bird feeder you can't reach, or what isle you can find diapers down. Do you see a name tag on my boob? No! Pi$$ off. <br /> Then I just LOVE when people ask me 'Where is the bathroom' so, I shrug, and they're so damn retarded they even ask me, 'well don't you work here' (Gee Einstein, do you honestly think I work here, and not know where the heck the bathrooms are! Here's your sign!) <br /> 5. I truly hate when I'm out shopping or running a household errand and a client who knows me by my work decides that since they can annoy me at my job place, that it MUST be okay to annoy me while I'm out running errands as well, on my damn day off! <br /> (I have 2 days off in my busy work week! 2! That is 48 hours! 16 of which are spent sleeping. Another 3 of those hours are spent perhaps watching TV or diddly daddling on the computer. Another 2 hours showering, about 10 hours are so easily wasted trying to run around doing things I couldn't get done throughout the week. About 4 of those 48 hours spent cooking and eating. Another 5 hours is wasted away catering to those who decide to stop by the house unannounced. So basically I have about 10 hours of actual free time. Do these free loaders really think I would even want to waste so much as a minute of my free time on them! <br /> *Look people, if you want to have a conversation with someone like me, while I'm OFF, I'm going to have to start charging you by the minute. I honestly don't care that you nearly ran out of gas while taking your dog to the vet, or that you have a strange sore growing inside of your mouth -And NO I DON'T WANT TO TAKE A LOOK! MMM-kay. Leave me be. Good day! Now let me get back to finishing up my 'chores'! <br /> 6. I hate when I'm driving behind someone and suddenly out of nowhere they hault to an almost complete stop at each road they pass. Not because there is a stop sign... but because they are looking for a certain street. They're lost. So instead of pulling over, they continue driving 10mph down the road while everyone else is stuck behind them. Nearly ramming into them every time they decide to stop. Sweet people. <br /> (Seriously folks, if you're lost, and find yourself driving erratic, pull the hell over and let people pass you, and then continue being retarded when no one else is being affected by your complete and utter retartedness) <br /> 7. I hate when I see people who are walking their dog, and all of a sudden pull on the leash dragging the dog when the dog stops walking to take a dunk. (How the heck would you like to get dragged out of the pooper while your in the middle of it hanging out of your butt!?) <br /> 8. When I worked in fast food, I hated when complaining customers would come back in saying that we forgot their fries. Yet when I looked at the empty bag they were holding, I could clearly see the mob of grease at the bottom of the bag, where the fries once laid. (Come on dirt bag, just because we work in fast food, does NOT mean we have below average IQ's. And really only a bottom feeder would pull off such a pathetic stunt. SCRUB. Get a job- here's am application.) <br /> 9. I hate when I see half naked girls walking around in the dead of winter. These are the ones who get pneumonia and pass it around to those of us who actually 'bundle up' (Believe me ladies, you're only attracting potential rapists and perverts,- keep on, keeping on) <br /> 10. I hate when people solicit. They come into my office daily trying to get me to donate to some sort of unknown charity. Come on, yes I feel bad, and yes I wish I had the money to donate to your cause, whatever it may be- but just because I wear a suit, does not mean I have money dripping out of my pockets. It's hard enough this day and age to even fill my tank with gas to get to work everyday. I have bills to worry about, and most people these days, even with good paying jobs can barely afford themselves, let alone to feed their OWN kids. With huge mortgages, car payment, utilities, food, and for some they work just to afford daycare. I'm sorry, but seriously, if I can't afford to donate, please stop pushing it. <br /> 11. I'm also getting sick and tired of seeing kids no older than 5 riding around the streets on bicycles with absolutely no supervision. (Come on people, pick up the newspapers, there are children going missing everyday. A 4 year old riding alone on a bike outside is a prime target for kidnappers, and not to mention an extremely easy target. -It's almost like advertising, 'here is my kid, come and git' em') <br /> 12. Another thing I am getting sick and tired of is listening to housewives complain about how hard and depressing their life is. (Yes I guess relying on someone else to support you and the family is a hard and sad task. Oh, I feel so bad for you, you have to cook dinner, and clean! Awe and the kids were bad today. Poor thing! You have it so hard! Please! Be grateful you are fortunate enough to be able to stay home and raise your kids on your own than to have some babysitter or daycare center do it for you. And maybe take into consideration that your husband is out working his tail off while you get to reap the benefits. Yet so many of my stay at home friends complain that there hubby's don't satisfy them in the bedrooms the way they used to. Poor thing! Maybe because he's run down? Ever think of that one? He supports her unnecessary shoe shopping sprees, and the children's needs as well! Sheesh!) <br /> 13. I also hate when I see young children in stores beating on their mothers leg or stomachs because they didn't get their way, while the mother just sits there talking with the clerk and pays no mind to this awful act being done to them. I guess it is cool if you're raising a future boxer or UFC fighter. But allowing your kids to beat on you and doing nothing about it is insane! <br /> 14. I hate it when I'm out shopping and some extremely rude person nudges me over so they can get a closer look at the object I am standing before. It's rude, wait your damn turn! This is usually the same person that allows their 6 yr old to push the shopping carts into people's ankles while they're walking! Nice! <br /> 15. I hate that every single person who passes by my office window stops in to see if they can use my fax machine. If I am in a good mood I say yes, bad mood no. <br /> However when I do give the approval they tell me that they are faxing to some foreign country! What the hell!? I mean damn I'm being nice here, but your just taking advantage of the situation. Go find a faxing place. Sorry! <br /> 16. I truly hate when I have no choice and I have to use a public bathroom to go wee. Then when I open the door to every stall the entire toilet is filled with either pee, or some other nasty body ooze, and who the hell has been shaving in here!? (Come on people, haven't you seen the episode of Tyra? You can't catch diseases on toilets. Sit the hell down and pee like a normal human being, don't yank at your private areas and leave hair all over the place, its disgusting! If you can't do that at least clean up after yourself you slob.) <br /> And there you have it. There are many more hates I have. However we could be here all day. As Jerry Springer would say, 'take care of yourself, and each other' A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-36568491928974376642014-07-31T16:30:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:30:28.767-04:00Here Stupid Comes to Ruin the Day!!!Careful, I'm a time bomb. Wanna play? <br /> Okay, hmmm... where to start? <br /> My mean thoughts usually begin when someone pi**es me off. Today for instance, (I work in Real Estate mind you) I get a phone call from some moron who didn't know what house he was looking at, but hmm... he wanted the price. But that's okay, 'I know the town' <br /> You just want to hand people like this a whip, so they can whip themselves for being so stupid. I swear, you have to try to be this stupid, and he must have been trying really hard. <br /> "Sorry Sir, there's nothing I can do if I don't have an address, or at least an MLS number" <br /> So stupid calls me stupid, and hangs up. I love New York! God bless! <br /> He needed a giant tampon, or an adult diaper. It's obvious he's on his period, and it's obvious he's a little baby. May as well kill two birds with one stone. <br /> It's fun too, because I got his number see... I guess people fail to realize that nowadays most companies have caller I.D. <br /> See stupid doesn't know, that me; stupid... has a stupid brother, who is a stupid cop, and god how easy it is to trace this stupid with a phone number. God I love stupids. I also love the reports I get back from my stupid brother about how he gave stupid a ticket for some stupid reason. We're all gather round the fireplace and we laugh and laugh...stupidly. <br /> Anyways, just when I thought the day couldn't get any worse I go outside to have a drag of my cigg, and some stupid lady comes up to me moaning and complaining that the gift store next door to my office is never open, and "I" should do something about it. <br /> Has the world just grown incredibly stupid today? Is there a bug going round? <br /> I shrugged and wanted to laugh in her face and push her into traffic, but I held my cool, and laughed at the thought of this stupid lady getting hit by a bus. Instead, I shrugged and told her to call the number that is in BOLD letters on the storefront sign. <br /> She's so stupid she wrote it down. HEE HEEE .... See stupid didn't know that the number is for the store. See no one can answer the phone if no one is in. Chuckklllle lucckklle llooooo. <br /> Time kept slipping away and my final 'stupid call' for the day came in, and this is probably what possessed me to write this piece. <br /> The phone rings... ringlle dingllle dingle jingle jooo... <br /> Yep, this stupid is probably the worst kind of stupid. This stupid wanted to know if he could 'buy a house' with a credit card. Up front right then and there. <br /> Hmm... this could be dangerous. I couldn't tell if he was serious or not... but it sounded like he was. I asked anyway. "You serious Brutha!" <br /> I took his information and let another agent deal with his stupidness. Hyyaaahaaa. <br /> But just when things couldn't get any more stupid I watch as an idiot trips over a large hook that holds in the street curbs garbage pails. The pail was off the hook; someone must of stole it or something... but anyways... <br /> Now on the sidewalk remains this dangerous tripping device. It's the best thing I have to look forward to at work everyday. <br /> This one idiot of course trips over it, but then he looks 'DUMBFOUNDED' scratching his chin and all. Obviously his stupid simple mind went too deep into thought. <br /> -Is that drool? <br /> "Yes idiot, you tripped over that idiot" <br /> But he just kept staring at it, like it was some sort of alien form. I had to laugh out loud for that; he just kept looking at it, and looking at it. I was so tempted to scream..."Yeah stupid, it's a hook, see stupid, it's not sunken pirate treasure. It's a damn hook, and your dumb butt went and tripped over it... move on so I can watch someone else fall" <br /> He really took the fun out of the whole experience. Usually I watch one or two people a day trip over it. He's just wasting time now. Hahahaha. <br /> This idiot must of noticed me staring, so either out of frustration or embarrassment, he comes in to tell me "I" should call the town and inform them of this nuisance. <br /> "Yeah, yeah, I'm right on that dumb a-" <br /> However I'm not the idiot who took the flop. Maybe "YOU" should call the town. Don't be a baby, do you need a diaper? Do it yourself. Sheesh. <br /> I picked up the phone, and pretended to dial some random numbers, just to give this moron some satisfaction. Seeing how I was using him for my own amusement, I figured, why not go with it. <br /> Stupid walked out, and didn't even turn back to watch as I hung up. <br /> See the lesson of the day is... If you're going to be stupid, admit you're stupid and walk away. Don't make it worse for yourself by making an a-out of yourself in front of everyone else. <br /> If you trip, don't expect the world to catch you, or care for that matter. You got an issue... DEAL. Don't be pathetic, don't get nasty, and don't ask for help. Help yourself. <br /> But in case you need a hand, I can lend you a tampon if your feeling nasty or a diaper if you're feeling useless. Other than that, I have nothing else to offer but laughter. <br /> At you. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-58144237981948186282014-07-31T16:10:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:10:41.342-04:00The Sims 2 - Two Hundred Times Better Than the First I know all of you who have stopped in most likely already know about The Sims 1. Well Maxis has amped it up a lot since then. The Sims 2 was a release fans have known about years before it even hit the shelves. We all drooled together as Maxis released mini teaser photos and video trailers. Then finally as if it couldn't come any sooner, the game hit the shelves. <br /> One small problem, if you were trying to run this game on a low end older PC it was not happening. This game actually caused me to junk my old PC and go out and buy an all out gaming machine. <br /> The Sims 2 required a video card with at least 32 MB of video RAM (such as nvidia GeForce 2 or better or ATI Radeon 7000 or better), then you need at least: 800 MHz processor, 256 MB RAM if Windows XP, 128 MB RAM if Windows 98, Windows ME, or Windows 2000 and at least 3.5 gigs of free hard drive space. <br /> My old computer had none of that, and when I tried sneaking by the requirements I ended up with some slow motion moving Sims. Not good. <br /> <b><i><u>SO WHAT IS THE SIMS 2?</u></i></b><br /> Only the best simulation game in the world! Gez! But for real, The Sims 2 is a people simulation game. It's like real life, and you pretty much live it for them. They have needs, such as using the bathroom, eating, socializing, having fun, and sleep. Pretty much your normal everyday life routine, only everything is done in Sim land. <br /> Your Sims need to have jobs in order to make money to afford more expensive items such as cars, Jacuzzis, and more luxurious household items. This is basically the game in a nutshell, only their are tons of things that were added in The Sims 2 in order to make the game more appealing. <br /> The Sims need housing, and you can choose whether or not they move into a pre-built home, or if you decide to build the home from scratch. Building homes from scratch are always the most fun. <br /> Your Sims have a new bar in this game, they now have aspiration meters. Every morning you're Sims menu will pop up with new things they want to do. If you complete the task, the Sims aspiration meter will rise. The higher it goes, the happier the Sim will be. <br /> The Sims also have fears, such as seeing a ghost, or changing a diaper. If your Sim runs into one of these tasks their meters will fall into the red. If you Sims meter falls too far into the red, they will get a visit from the head doctor. This doctor will only be seen by that depressed Sim. So if you want to see the shrink, make sure you click on that Sim. <br /> <b><u>BUILD YOUR FAMILY:</u></b><br /> Or make some celebrities to roam in your Sim town. The best part about the Sims 2 is building a Sim, or Sim family. Maxis has added tons of new features, and you can even build you Sim to look like you if you are crafty. You choose the shape of the face, nose, eyes, lip, chin, ears. You can adjust everything on the face. Make a Sim with a huge nose, or flat one. The possibilities are endless. There is also a limited amount of hair styles, but you can always download content online for new styles. You can have up to 6 Sims living in a household at one time. However if your PC is jacked up you can fit even more. <br /> I like building celerity families. But if Angelina adopts more kids, I won't be able to fit them all in. Haha! <br /> Anyhow, after you have your Sim looking the way you want, you can then move them into an empty lot, or pre-built home. If any of your Sims have children their children will take on their look through genetics. It's pretty neat. So if your mom Sim has a big nose, and the dad Sim has a big nose, most likely the baby will too. <br /> <b><u>BABIES:</u></b><br /> This time around Maxis has surprised us all by adding in birth. You can get a Sim pregnant by making whoopie in either a bed, jacuzzi, photo booth, or elevator. Once two male and female Sims have a high relationship, the 'try for baby' button will become available. If the pregnancy was successful you will hear a mini chime. You have to really be listening to hear it, as it is a very light noise. <br /> Your Sim will now be pregnant for 4 days, and as the days go by you will watch as her stomach grows until she gives birth. Fear not though, there is no mess scenes here. The Sim will moan for a bit, and the screen will blank out. Next a baby will literately fall from the sky and land into the Sims arms. The baby will be either a boy or girl, and there is also a very random chance of having twins! Next you name the baby or babies. <br /> Your baby will age, and you can see how old he or she is by looking over at the new AGE meter. The age meter will tell you how many more days till your Sim becomes a toddler, child, teen, adult and elder. <br /> <b><u>MEN CAN GIVE BIRTH TOO:</u></b><br /> Thats right, keep staring through the telescope and the aliens will come and get you. They will impregnate your sim, and soon the male sim will give birth to a bouncing <i>'green'</i> baby. They do nothing special, but look green. <br /> <b><u>TODDLERS:</u></b><br /> In 3 days a baby will become a toddler. Here you start teaching your child how to speak, walk, and use the potty. This is a very important time in a Sims life. If the toddler is ignored, it will suffer aspiration failure and grow up unhappy as they become a child. <br /> <b><u>CHILDREN:</u></b><br /> As a Sim child your Sims basic job is to just have fun and complete homework. They go to school 5 days a week from 8am to 3pm, and will be off on Saturday and Sunday. They sometimes will bring a friend from school home with them on the bus. This is good for socializing, and hey, maybe this friend will turn into a potential date in the future? <br /> Older Sims can influence younger Sims as well. They can teach them to be nice to others, or to be neat instead of sloppy. It takes a lot of work to add on points, but you can fill up a Sims personality bank before they turn into teens. <br /> <b><u>TEENS:</u></b><br /> At this age your Sims can get a part time after school job. Or they can just live it up. At this age some of your Sims may become rebellious towards other family members, and fighting occurs a lot between other teen relatives, so watch out! honestly though there is no way to get a teen to stop fighting or hating a sibling. They could have even had a great relationship as they were children, then one day... one hits the other, and the rest is history. <br /> As a teen your Sims will run away from home if they feel neglected. The cops will bring the teen back the next day if they find him or her, or the teen will return in 3 days if not found. <br /> Sim teens will also sometimes sneak out with a boyfriend or group of friends. You don't get to go with them though, but they will return back to the lot at around 6am with low need levels. <br /> Did I jump the gun and say boyfriend? Yep, teen Sims can now have boyfriends and girlfriends. The Sims 2 does not limit it to male female relations either. Your Sim boys can date Sim boys, and Sim girls can date Sim girls. <br /> Tenn Sims can kiss, make-out, and flirt, but they cannot make whoopie yet. <br /> <b><u><b><u>CHILD PROTECTIVE AGENCY:</u></b></u></b><br /> If a toddler is starving or neglected the social worker will pull up in a black van and take all children from the lot away. So take care of your kids! <br /> The social worker will visit if the child is hungry, or doing bad in school. <br /> <b><u>ADULTS:</u></b><br /> As adults you have the job of bringing home money, raising a family, and preparing for retirement. Once your Sims have achieved their aspiration, which may be to become a famous chef, their aspiration meter will remain in the platinum zone until death. Once you have enough aspiration points, you can buy new unlockable items. <br /> <b><u>ELDERS:</u></b><br /> Your Sims can still work, but you can also choose for him or her to retire and they will get paid a weekly pension. Depending on how well your Sims has lived his or her life will determine how much longer the Sim has to live. Your Sim can live up to 25 days more as an elder. But if your Sim had a shaky unbalanced life, they may die sooner. <br /> Death will come, dressed as the grim reaper to collect the old person, and an urn will be left behind. If you move the urn outside, you can have a gravestone for your other Sims to mourn at. This Sim ghost may visit every now and then, or not. (There is also a way to resurrect dead Sims, but I will cover this later). <br /> <b><u>RELATIONSHIPS:</u></b><br /> Sims make relationships with other Sims either in the neighborhood, or by you setting up their relationships in the build a Sim mode. <br /> The relationship will grow stronger the more they pay attention to one another. As time goes on eventually one Sim or both Sims will grow crushes on one another. Once a crush has been established it's pretty easy to take it to the next level into love. Once love is present your Sims can do everything a couple would do; even whoopie. <br /> However if your Sim is ever caught flirting with another Sim, the other party will get a cheating memory that will be stored into their memory bank. That Sim will then fall out of love, and resent the cheating Sim for quite some time. It is hard to repair a relationship once cheating is involved, but it can be done if you work on it. <br /> You can cheat on other Sims you are involved in so long as they are not on the lot. But be careful, if someone else spotted you, they will store this memory, and if they happen to talk to the Sim you are cheating on, they may tell him or her. It can be a really drama filled experience once Sims cheat. Children will be effected if they find out, and will resent the cheating Sim as well. <br /> <b>Fights:</b> <br /> Sometimes two Sims just don't get along. Their personalities clash and they just hate to even be in the same room as them. If they come in contact with one another teasing may occur first, which will lower the relationship score into the red zone. Once a Sim has a -100 relationship with another Sim a brawl can break out. The most fit Sim usually wins. <br /> Your Sim can get fit by using exercises equipment, swimming in the pool, doing yoga, or working out to the TV. Beef your Sim up if they are prone to fighting. <br /> <b><u>DEATH:</u></b><br /> Sims can die. Not only due to old age, but other factors can play a part in a Sims death. A Sim with low skills in mechanical may try to fix a broken TV set, if they get zapped death could occur. There is also a small random chance that a satellites crashes down on them while they are watching clouds outside. You can also starve a Sim which will cause death. Also if the house is a mess a swarm of flies could also eat you alive. This is a rare odd occurrence, but can happen. Your Sims can also die in fires and in the pool. <br /> Once death comes to collect, if there are Sims who have high relationships with the dying Sim, they can bargain with Death. He will roll a dice, and if you win, the Sim lives. But if your relationship is not too high, and you win this Sim may come back as a zombie. If you loose the Sim dies. <br /> Depending on why the Sim died will play a role in whether or not this Sim comes back to haunt. <br /> If a Sim dies from hunger, and there is no food in the fridge, it may throw things in the house around, or turn lights on and off, and sometimes even scaring other Sims to death. <br /> If a Sim is electrocuted they will be a yellow ghost. If a Sim drowns, blue. In a fire, red and smoking. It's pretty neat having ghosts haunting the lot, especially angry ones. Heheh! <br /> <b><u>OTHER WAYS TO BRING BACK A DEAD SIM:</u></b><br /> You can call them on the psychic phone. They however may come back as a zombie. The psychic phone can only be bought once someone gets a career in the paranormal. After that you can call up any dead Sim on the lot. <br /> <i><b>MAID! </b></i> <br /> Like in the Sims 1, a maid can be called upon to clean the home. She or he will arrive from 11 am till 5pm or until the house is fully cleaned. If you notice a maid not doing her or his job efficiently, you can fire them, and rehire someone else. <br /> <b><u>SHOPS:</u></b><br /> There are stores in the neighborhood you can visit, or you can build yourself. From coffee shops, to hang out spots for your Sims to meet with other Sims. Your Sims can get here by calling a cab, or driving their car. Yep! The Sims can now drive! <br /> <b><u>BUILD MODE:</u></b><br /> This section is based primarily on building your home, and making gardens. Here you will find building supplies such as windows, doors, walls, fences, pools, lawn coverings, plants, bushes, trees, roofs, fireplaces, columns for the home, and many many more things. Building a home can take a lot of time, but it adds a game to the game. There is nothing I like more than building a dream home for my Sims. <br /> <b><u>DON'T STOP THERE: </u></b> <br /> You can now purchase expansion and stuff packs to add even more into your game. I recommend sticking to the expansion packs though, and ignoring the stuff packs. <br /> Expansion packs will add pets, a college, a downtown, businesses, or seasons! The expansion packs are a must have for any Sim fan. <br /> You can also download original content at <a href="http://www.thesims2.com/">www.thesims2.com</a>, or google keywords 'Sims 2 downloads'. <br /> <b><u>OVERALL:</u></b><br /> Bravo, this is an excellent game indeed, and I couldn't recommend it more. The game play is endless, and so is the fun. Making Sim dreams come true, or wreaking havoc! It's up to you. <br /> <b><u>AVAILABILITY:</u></b><br /> The Sims 2 is now available almost everywhere, Game Stop, Target, Walmart, or online at the Sims 2 site. The price still remains at $39.99 and has not gone down since it's release. But there are times it goes on sale, and there are some releases for the same price that come with more items and game aspects than just the original title. It's called The Sims 2 Deluxe. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-9172524424309584702014-07-31T16:05:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:05:38.442-04:00Professional House Cleaners: How to Tell If You're Being Taken Advantage OfI've had my fair share of jobs, okay not really I have had 2 official long term jobs, and everything else I do on the side is simply because I'm greedy for a quick buck. <br /> My cousin Destiny and I decided to throw (literately overnight) ourselves into a part time business career. Or so we thought. House cleaning. We weren't licenses, nor insured, but we offered a decent price compared to most non-legit house cleaning companies. You got 2 for the price of 1. We charged around $200 for a top to bottom cleaning. I'm talking us arriving at the home at 7am and finishing at 9pm. <i>We did not miss a spot.</i><br /> When my cousins boyfriend got our first client for us, we were hyped and ready to go, and we hoped she liked our work enough to have us come back regularly. Besides an extra $100 bucks each was not bad for one day of work. <br /> Her name was Mrs. Hersh. <i>She was a slob</i>. I'm not talking your average slob, I mean a big one! Cat poo on top of cabinets, food in cupboards stuck to plates, dishes piled up on counters so old and dirty that mold was growing on them. <br /> I swear the board of health would of shut this dump down. We looked at eachother, eyes aglow. No way in hell was I sitting there all day and cleaning this dump for $200. <br /> Mrs. Hersh told us her story about how she had arthritis and couldn't clean, blah blah... and that she'd give us an extra $100 each, and that she was embarrassed. So the greed in our hearts said yes, but our eyes said no. <br /> We worked our butts off that day, and even at 10pm the job was not fully finished. But we had our money. As we were about to leave and never look back, she tells us to come back tomorrow to help her with some <i><b>'stuff''.</b></i><br /> <i>Okay, but I hope she knows shes paying us again</i>, my cousin sighed under her breath. <br /> The next day, us; <i>the cleaning ladies</i> arrive to her home, and this time she wants us to <i>' pack and move furniture'</i>. Now I had never heard of a cleaning lady moving, and packing furniture. Basically that day we played the role of the 'mover guys'. It was not easy work either. It consisted of packing up her entire house in bubble wrap and boxes, and heaving it out to a mover van. <br /> After 4 hours of non stop work, we both wonder what she is paying us, seeing how we were both too frigging shy to make a price from the get go. After 5 hours though, I thought to myself, a mover would be paid about $500 for this fu**ing job. I figured we bat for $200 each again. <br /> By 5pm we were not even half done. Not only that as we are in the basement, she manages to heave her huge a$$ down the stairs and had the never to say <i>"girls, see that fridge over there, do you think you could somehow manage to carry it up and put it out front for the garbage man?"</i><br /> I nearly died laughing-inside of course. Not only did this fridge outweighed us both combined, but it was also crammed in the corner of the basement. This loony mofo actually expected us 2 girls to flop a fridge on our backs and carry it up her long narrow flight of stairs. <i>Was she out of her mind?!</i><i>Was she sick in the head?</i><br /> By now, I see the pattern, this woman is seriously taking advantage of this entire situation. We <i><b>were</b></i> house cleaning ladies. Not <i>movers,</i> not <i>back breakers</i>. We come in and clean. Yet here I am, <i>moving her things</i>. <br /> We pretty much looked at her like she was insane, and said there was no way in hell we're lugging that ancient fridge up on our backs. We will either, one, <i>kill ourselves</i>, or 2, <i>throw out our back</i>. We may be young, we may of been strong, but there was no way I was risking my health, and life for this pig. <br /> So more time goes by, and at this time we have nearly her entire house packed nicely into the back of the moving truck. We are exhausted, and shes still their breathing down our necks. Next all that was left was a minor vacuuming, and a dusting, and spray down of the bathrooms. The would only take us about an half hour. <br /> So while I'm on my hands and knees hanging on to the last ounce of energy I have left, she taps me on the shoulder. <i>"Could you girls clean my linens". </i> Okay so I'm thinking, what the hell is <i>'linens'.</i> I don't use language like that, so she leads me into her bedroom, and there is a massive pile of shi* on the bed. Clothes, towels, bras, underwear, and curtains. <i>I guess those are linens?</i><br /> Me and Destiny took turns lugging loads into her shabby outdoor washing room. We manage to quickly get a few loads done, and finally said, <i>screw it</i>, because if we kept going back and fourth from drying, to cleaning, to folding, back to house cleaning, we'd be there all night. <br /> Finally Mrs. Hersh goes online, and is quiet for a good solid 20 minutes. Her being in the way was causing a drag in the time, and it made it hard to get things done. I couldn't even bare to look at her without wanting to push her down a flight of stairs. This woman, was taking advantage of us, and it was clear as day. By now, my mind and body, and my cousin whispered, '<i>$1,000 is not even worth this B.S.'</i> But here I was again, on the floor vacuuming. AHHH! <br /> I watched from the floor like a dog, as Mrs. Cow slurped on a cup of lemonade. I knew this was another fuc**** dish I would have to hand clean! I hope she choked on a cube. <br /> Next I hear my cousin yelling in the bathroom, waking me from my daydream. As she was cleaning the tub, she accidentally hit the shower button and soaked herself. I looked at her pathetically, not that I thought she was pathetic, but just that <i>'we got in way over our heads'</i> look. <br /> She dries off, and now... yes the best part. Now the damn tub will not drain the water. Mrs. Hersh has the nerve to ask if we could stick out wet/dry vac down the drain to suck up whatever is clogged. <i>Yay! So now we are the goddamn plumbers!?</i> That'll be another $500 I thought viciously in my head. After a few moments of struggling, it turned out the damn drain plug notch was causing the water not to go down. <br /> Back to work, <i>vrrrooom vacuuming</i>...... Mrs.Hersh enters the room, and asks us to stop what we are doing to help her pick couch covers. <i>Was she serious!? Was she drunk!?</i> We just wanted to finish our work, and go the hell home. It was about 8:30pm now. So we are sitting in front of her computer, as we help decide which cover slip would look best on such and such a couch. The whole thing was just bullsh--. <br /> Finally she decided on one, and orders 4. Grand total, $400 for some couch slips. This cow better pay us good, she seems to have no problem buying expensive couch covers. <br /> Okay, its almost 10pm, and we are finally done. Or so we though, Mrs. Hersh notices her outdoor canopy ma-jiggie needs to be folded up. <i>What the hell?</i> We didn't even bother going outside to try and disassemble her piece of crap canopy. Or bones ached, we were filthy, and our boogers were black. I felt unhealthy, ready to hurl. <br /> She asks...<i>how much?</i> I wanted to say <i><b>a grand</b></i>, easily <b><i>a grand</i></b>. But the idiot I am, <i>I say nothing</i>. She then hands us both $200 and asks us to come back tomorrow. Nope... we both had our other jobs to attend. <br /> She then says, <i>"you guys are a blessing, you got this place cleaned up, and empty in 2 days. Thank God because my summer rentals are moving in tomorrow. But you made $400 each. Thats pretty dang good for only 2 days of work right!?"</i><br /> I wanted to punch her in the face. 2 days of work usually consist of only 16 hours of work. With a break! Not 25 hours of non stop working and tedious jobs. <br /> So for 2 days of my life, I was a plumber, a laundromat, a house cleaning lady, a home decorator, and a mover. All for $400. Not to mention the cleaning equipment, and supplies cost about $100. We gained practically nothing; except exhaustion, burning muscles, and anger. <br /> That house should of just been burnt down; <i>condemned.</i> I have never felt more taken advantage of. <br /> Now when we get small house cleaning jobs on the side, we name a price from the get go, anything extra is an additional $20. We learned a valuble lesson from Mrs. Hersh, and her conning ways. We now follow guidelines when we take on cleaning jobs. <br /> <b><u>HOW TO SPOT WHEN YOU'RE BEING TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF: </u></b> <br /> 1. They will ask you to do favors that have nothing to do with house cleaning. <br /> 2. They will you to pick something up on the way there. Then not pay you when you get it for them. <br /> 3. They will be down your back the entire time, and knowing you have not had a break, will not offer one. <br /> 4. They will ask you to preform jobs that a group of strong men should be doing. <br /> 5. They will leave garbage around the house, <i>as you are cleaning</i>, causing you to have to go back and re-clean the area again. <br /> <b><u>WHAT NOT TO DO:</u></b><br /> 1. Accept a price 'they' give you. <br /> 2. Do extra work without naming a price <br /> 3. Laundry. This job can easily take 3 hours, cleaning, drying and folding. <br /> 4. Dishes. You are the to vacuum, dust, clean widows, tubs, toilets, floors, counters, sinks, and everything else that looks messy. Not their dishes. <br /> 5. Do not forget to add the price of supplies into the overall cost of cleaning the home. The supplies alone could cost you $60-$100 per job. Add it in. <br /> 6. Do not feel bad for the person, do not get too friendly. Getting overly friendly is an open invitation to getting taken advantage of. <br /> 7. Do not get them groceries, or cook for them unless you are getting paid extra. Gas costs money, and cooking is time. Unless this is in the job description, do not get conned into it after cleaning their home. <br /> 8. If you are in a home for 3 hours, and feel like you are being taken advantage. Ask for the money they owe you.. but not in full. Make up an 'emergency at home' lie, and never look back. <br /> 9. Do not give them a pay by the hour price. They will try to get you to come in, rush you around, and abuse you for 3 or 4 hours depending on how long they need you. <br /> 10. Do not overprice easy jobs. If it's a once over, price it fairly. You want repeat customers like this. <br /> You will be shocked by what people try to get away with for free. Some will go on a power trip, and some will not want to pay you for certain extra jobs. Simply don't do them. <i>I can't stress it enough.</i> Time is money. The more time you waste working extra jobs at one house, the less time you have to finish the next one. <br /> <b><u>WHAT TO DO:</u></b><br /> 1. If you walk into a house in shambles, do not be afraid to price it at $500. It is a blessing for them to get such cheap work. <br /> 2. If the homeowner keeps adding on tasks, do not be afraid to tell them, that'll be extra. If they have a problem with that, don't argue. Just don't do it. <br /> 3. If the homeowner keeps interfering with you getting your work done in a timely fashion, kindly ask that they leave. <br /> 4. If the homeowner asks you to stop for something on the way in, or while you are in the middle of work, let them know it will be an additional price, and that they are to pay for gas. <br /> 5. Do take a breather. Do not let a homeowner work you to the bone. You need to stop and eat if you are doing a long tedious job. <i>Bring your lunch with you.</i> <br /> 6. If a homeowner does not want to pay for extra work, do not feel bad for them and do the job for free. <br /> 7. Do a good job. <i>No slacking.</i> If you see a mess, <i><b>clean it</b></i>, don't hide it. If you see dust, dust it! Don't take advantage of a good homeowner. <br /> Now after all of that, if you still think you have what it takes to follow up with this job/career, go for it. The money can be nice, if you are not being taken advantage of. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-75999025177609337422014-07-31T16:03:00.003-04:002014-07-31T16:03:49.725-04:00How to Care for Your Hermit CrabHermit crabs are easy pets, they require little attention and care. For the most part, a hermit crab would make a great first time pet for children. Care consists of keeping the tank clean, feeding, baths and water. <br /> First you will need a tank, a 10 gallon tank would be the best size to keep your crab happy. Smaller tanks for one crab though is fine too. You will need to buy soil or moss. They have special mosses and dirt for you to add to your tank in any local pet store. You will also need a water dish, and a separate food dish. <br /> You can get creative and subdivide your tank into half water, half sand. Do make sure though that the water is not deeper than the height of your crabs face. They can drown in water, so make sure it's a small puddle of water. Also purchase s water soaking sponge. They sell these in pet stores. They are small orange colored sponges in odd shapes, pick out a nice big one. This sponge retains water, that your crab will drink and sometimes perch on. <br /> You can also buy hermit crab logs. They like to hide in these at times during the day. The way your tank looks in the long run is all based on how creative you are. Lighting is not necessary, but you can add a small 15 watt reptile light to your tank to add heat. However this is not necessary in summer months. Do not leave the light on for more than a few hours a day. You could dry out the habitat, and hermits like moisture. <br /> Crabs also like to climb, you can add a small thick sturdy log into the tank for your hermit crab. They like high places, but make sure the log is not too high. If the crab falls from high places it could kill him. <br /> Once you have your tank all set up, next you pick your hermit crab. You can get a small one or a larger one. But be sure to always buy some shells in larger sizes. Your hermit will grow and will need a new home. Leave these empty shells in the tank. When your hermit has grown, he will pick a new shell. You can save, or discard the old one. <br /> Always provide fresh water to your hermit daily, and fresh food every 2-3 days. There are also specially designed hermit crab fruits and treats you can buy at any local pet store. You should also add a fresh egg shell once a week to chomp on. <br /> Make sure you buy a water spritzer, your crab will require a spritz or 2 every other day to keep the tank moist. Your crab will also need a bath every so often. I simply run mine under running water for a few seconds. You can also submerge him in a bowl of room temperature water for a few seconds. Dry him off a bit, and wash your hands afterward. <br /> <b><i>FIGHT!!!</i></b><br /> If you have more than one hermit crab always make sure to provide plenty of empty shells for them to move into. At times they will fight for shells. <br /> <b><u>PINCHER'S:</u></b><br /> Hermit crabs have huge pincher's. One is small, and the large one is used for battle and to protect itself. Your hermit may pinch you if you are not careful. The pinches though are quick, and do not hurt too bad. They have never once drawn blood from my fingers. But a nasty hermit may clamp on and hold on. DO NOT FLING you hand. You could kill the crab. Simply run him under water until he lets go. <br /> <b><u>SIZE:</u></b><br /> Your small hermit crab can grow up to 3 inches and more with proper care, habitat, and time. Do make sure you have empty shells in hand. <br /> <b><u>CLEANING:</u></b><br /> Not only do hermit require baths, but so do their tanks. Give it a good cleaning once a week, and check any sand or moss for poop. Clean it out, it could cause mites to invade the tank if you do not clean up regularly. I clean mine daily to make ensure there is no weekly giant clean up. Clean up though, is quick and easy. <br /> <b><u>PLAY:</u></b><br /> You can let your crabs out to play every now and then, but they honestly should be handled with care. Do not keep them out long, and do not shake them. You can let them out to walk around, but keep them at ground level, and do not leave them unattended. <br /> Always wash your hands after handling a hermit. <br /> <b><u>MOLTING:</u></b><br /> Yep they shed their shells. Molting happens about once every year for larger crabs. They are very soft at this time, and if you notice your molting, separate him from other crabs. They are vulnerable until they become hard again. <br /> Molting has signs, if you see your active crab becoming lazy, it is a sign he may be molting. Their color may also look dull, and they will eat and drink a lot more than usual. Do not remove the exoskeleton. The molting crab will eat this to recover. This is a source of calcium, just like egg shells. <br /> <b><u>FOODS:</u></b><br /> Besides what you can buy you can also feed your crab hard boiled eggs, broccoli, carrots, lettuce, spinach, turkey, chicken, oranges, apples, grapes, potatoes, popcorn, granola, and raisins. Use sparingly and clean up everyday if you feed them these foods. <br /> <b><u>OVERALL:</u></b><br /> Although a hermit crab is an easy animal to care for, do realize that they <i>do need care</i>. You can't just buy one, throw it in a tank and expect great results. Follow simple steps to maintain a happy and healthy hermit. <br /> Enjoy. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-64440921394534833322014-07-31T16:03:00.001-04:002014-07-31T16:03:09.717-04:00Calling All Trend Hunters: The Latest Trends in Everything!Did you know that there is a site that lists the newest daily trends. I'm not talking what Paris Hilton's hair looks like, or what shoes Lindsay Lohan is wearing, I'm talking about the coolest gadgets one can only dream up. <br /> Did you know they are making a gum that when you chew it will disperse a scent through your skin for up to an hour after chewing it? Yeah it sounds like a Willy Wonka fantasy, but it is reality just waiting to be chewed on. <br /> Wouldn't you ladies love to get your hands on a perfume ring, where with a little tap to the ring it will spritz out scent for you to wear!? I know I wouldn't mind trying one out. <br /> I know all you business moguls out there are going to love this one. A solar powered jacket that will charge your things, such as cell phones. Or how about a glimpse into the newest car releases before they are even available. <br /> If you can dream it, most likely Trend Hunters has already found who has made it. <br /> <b><u>WHAT IS TREND HUNTER:</u></b><br /> Trend Hunter is all of the latest trends, its news reports that the news does not always cover, yet trend hunters will. It's a geeks wet dream, and a dreamers playground. <br /> <b><u>WHAT SETS TREND HUNTERS APART FROM OTHER SITES:</u></b><br /> Trend hunter allows users to find the cool trendy items, either on their own or on the Internet. Then users can write a small description of what it is, where to get it, who made it, and when it will be released. <br /> What makes trend hunters so addicting is that they pay. If you find a hot item, or have a hot story, trend hunters may publish you into their magazine. Of course you get paid for your article! <br /> Trend Hunter is an easy site to navigate. They divide their newest trends into category's, or you are free to view all of them at once. Category's include technology, sex, business and marketing, pop culture, art and design, lifestyle, science, world, random and popular trends. <br /> I like to view them ALL at one time, as there are about 10-30 new trends added daily. <br /> What is also great about trend hunters, is that no 2 stories or trends are the same. It can get annoying to view a site where 30 people are reporting the exact same trend just in different words. <br /> <b><u>TRENDS IN TECHNOLOGY:</u></b><br /> I'm just going to throw a few out there, if you visit the site though, expect to see tons more. But here are just a few neat gadgets making their way to consumers. <br /> 1. Canada has made the first ambulance to accommodate morbidly obese patients weighing in at 44-1,000 pounds. <br /> 2. Space station is brightest man made object in the sky. <br /> 3. Convertible stiletto shoes. These shows transform into flats with the click of a button making driving easy. <br /> <b><u>TRENDS IN SEX:</u></b><br /> 1. Anti pervert underwear have been developed to block IR beams from perverts cameras taking up skirt photos of woman. <br /> 2. Sydney Australia has many upset locals due to a topless car wash, that also offers lap dances to customers. <br /> 3. Vortex Vibrations is a new sex toy that attaches to your vacuum cleaner <br /> 4. There is a site called myfreeinplants where men donate money to women to help them pay for boob jobs. <br /> <b><u>TRENDS IN FASHION:</u></b><br /> 1. A new sole bag will get that new shoe smell...in your purse. <br /> 2. For the fashionistas, Chanel has created a new designer tennis racket, for those obsessed with name brands. <br /> 3. Glow in the dark tattoos have also recently hit the club scene. <br /> <b><u>TRENDS IN ART:</u></b><br /> 1. Someone had posted please on a you tube video to send him your free sample piece of tempur pedic mattress. You could sign the piece if you wanted. His goal...<i>to make his own bed for free.</i><br /> There are honestly so many interesting gadgets and doo dads here on the site, and what's best is that nearly all of them come with the included information so that you too can purchase the neat items you see on the site. Some of the trend include galleries of pictures, where others include actual video. <br /> <b><u>THE SITE:</u></b><br /> You can find the site here at <a href="http://www.trendhunter.com/">www.Trendhunter.com</a>. You are free to view every trend on the site. But when you become a free member you can also view trends that did not make it to website publication. This does not mean that these unpublished trends are less cooler, because believe me, they're all pretty frigging awesome. <br /> <b><u>POPULARITY:</u></b><br /> Even nerds like being popular, and on trend hunter, you can become popular. By adding in your own found trends that no one else has written about you gain status every time someone clicks in to read your article. You also gain status by posting 'the most' trends. Everything you post is still you're work, and anyone wanting to use your article in a magazine will be paying you. <br /> <b><u>MY USE:</u></b><br /> I have posted a few neat trends I have found on the Internet. But I have yet to receive any pay. This is because when I find something neat, I write a quick description on what it is, where to get it, and how much it costs, and if it is available yet. If you go into more detail though your chances of getting recognized are better. <br /> Pay or now pay, I just love visiting the site everyday to see what the latest trends are. I'm surprised everyday by what they come up with. Things I would not even of imagined. <br /> <b><i>Check it out!</i></b> As Paris would say, <b><i>"That's hot!"</i></b>A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-17074707482647443482014-07-31T15:51:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:51:20.333-04:00Hasbro's Tooth Tunes: Toothbrush Puts Music in Your Mouth, Not in Your EarsWhen I first saw a commercial for 'tooth tunes' by Hasbro I was immediately drawn in. <i>What a concept!</i> A toothbrush that will play music through my teeth, and into my head. Uh huh! <br /> Once I saw the commercial I also wondered how expensive this new tooth brush would be. $20, $30, maybe more? Once my mind started thinking about the ridiculous price, I realized it wasn't something I <i>really</i> needed. However on a recent trip to K-Bee Toys with my niece, I found the tooth tunes I knew I would want. It was one specially designed with Napoleon Dynamite in mind. It played the Canned Heat song from his famous dancing scene, and it also played some mini clips Napoleon Dynamite is famous for. I slid my $10 over to the clerk and made my way home with my new tooth tunes tooth brush. <br /> The toothbrush itself was designed for a child's mouth, but I didn't care, <i>I wanted to try it!</i> Why should <i>kids</i> be the only ones to get all of the cool stuff!? <br /> The toothbrush itself was packaged in a plastic seal, that almost landed me in the emergency room while trying to rip it open. Why companies still insist on making plastic packaging so heavy duty is beyond me? A simple box would have suited just fine, and would have been more Eco-friendly...but whatever. A warning to those buying this one, be careful when opening this packages, and try not to use a knife like I did. <br /> The toothbrush was blue and had Napoleon's picture attached to the handle. Each tooth tune brush has a different song, and will also feature their face on the toothbrush. Colors of brushes will also vary. <br /> The toothbrush itself is supposedly designed for children's hands, however it seemed large and bulky to me. I could see a child easily dropping this one numerous times while trying to hold on to the toothbrush. On the handle is a small button. If you press this button and hold the toothbrushes head down a bit, you can actually hear mumbles of music before even putting it into your mouth. I was a bit mad about this, I was thinking you'd only hear it while brushing! I felt like I had just bought a gimmick. <br /> I read the box before using it, it mentions that music will play for approximately 2 minutes while brushing. This is how long you should be brushing you teeth, so when the music stops you know that it's time to stop brushing. <br /> I then read the cool description. Its basically the same thing they mentioned on the commercials. The music travels through your teeth, through the jawbone, and to the inner ear. That's how you hear the music. Bah! I was hearing it even without brushing. <br /> I placed some toothpaste on the brush, and began brushing. Keep in mind that you will hear muffles of nothing if you leave the water running while brushing; so turn it off! <br /> I heard the music while I was brushing, but it was a very low tone sound. In order for me to really hear sound, I had to place the back of the tooth brushes head on my teeth. But who the hell brushes with the back of it? <i>I cant brush with the plastic part!</i> But this seems to be the only way to hear a good quality sound. Bummer. Not only that, but in order to hear the song at it's best, you can't move it around. So instead of making a toothbrush that plays music, they should have made a toothpick or tooth stick to place in your mouth for music. Not only that, but the tooth brush played the mini clips in the middle of the music. The interruption was annoying. I thought it would play things separately, but it didn't. <br /> This whole musical toothbrush concept is a bust! <br /> <b><u>OTHER TUNES:</u></b><br /> For those of you with spoiled kids screaming and moaning that the <i>'need'</i> one, even after reading how lame this product is, you can also check out tunes from Hilary Duff, High School Musical, Beach Boys, Black Eyed Peas, YMCA, Kiss, Rocky theme song, and many many more. <br /> You can read more, and check out all available songs at <a href="http://www.hasbro.com/toothtunes/">http://www.hasbro.com/toothtunes/</a>. <br /> <b><u>PRICING AND AVAILABILITY:</u></b><br /> You can pick up any tooth tune tooth brush for $10 or less. I have seen them at Toys'r'us, K-Bee Toys, and Walmart. I'm sure though that you can find them at any store in the bath product isles. <br /> <b><u>OVERALL:</u></b><br /> I'd seriously just avoid them. Although your kids may be driving you crazy over them, they are no better than a standard $2 toothbrush. Not only that but if your kid is attempting to hear the music best and places the plastic head of the toot brush on their teeth for too long, I could imagine chipping happening if they bite down on it too hard. I wouldn't recommend this waste of natural resources to anyone. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-52991762476035407982014-07-31T15:50:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:50:47.525-04:00Guide on How to Throw a Block PartyI've been to many block party's in my short time here on Earth, and my family has pulled together a pretty decent handful of them. So I figured I would discuss the ins and outs when it comes to pulling one together. <br /> First you want to spread the word, tell each surrounding neighbor around you, see what they think about the idea. Not everyone is going to be happy about this event, every block has the grumpy old man, or the rich snob who does not want to interact with others. Believe me, one grumpy SOB could ruin the fun for everyone. <br /> Anyways, if all is well, you will have the entire block joining in on the fun, or half. Either way, it's going to be fun. The best time of year for a block party is of course, the summer time. We usually throw a huge block party on the 4th of July, Labor Day or Memorial Day. People usually have this day off from work, so nearly everyone can attend. <br /> After you have established the block party, be sure to make flyers to stick in mailboxes of those at the far end of your block. Most block partys are only half of the block, but thats because people fail to spread the word to those father down the road. Come on! <i>Don't leave anyone out.</i><br /> <b>WHAT YOU NEED:</b><br /> Now you have a date, you know who is attending, next you want a sheet of things you will need. Just because the block party was your idea, does not mean all costs are your responsibility. Write up a booklet of things you will need. You will be surprised at how much pull some of your neighbors have. One of our neighbors had a cousin who hosted children's parties, and she was more than happy to join in on the fun and make balloon animals for neighborhood kids. Ask around, is anyone in the neighborhood related to someone that could possibly make things even funner? <br /> You will also need food, <i>hello!</i> Assign someone to bring chips, lots of chips, another person napkins and soda, salads, fruits, does someone have a large BBQ grill that you could use, see who wouldn't mind cooking a few hot dogs and hamburgers up. But do make sure to be courteous, don't throw such a large task on one person. You don't want to upset anyone, or have any unhappy campers at a block party. Everyone is there to have fun. So don't assign just one person to cooking duties. Everyone has to help! <br /> We always have our neighbors drag out their BBQ grills and they cook for their friends and family. If you want to exchange recipes or sample tastes, feel free. But do not grub off of anyone and expect them to cook for you, unless that is how your party is assigned. Remember each person has their family, and their friends over to eat. Make things easy and drag out your own grill. <br /> <b>ENTERTAINMENT:</b><br /> Make sure you have entertainment. Hire a DJ, band, or heck, even a CD player is fine. Allow neighbors use to the player, so they may put in what they like. Play something light and easy. No hard rock or rap music. I find that a CD player playing a few beach boys tunes always sets the summer mood just fine, and its light enough as to where it does not bother anyone. Once it gets semi late, do make sure you lower music to an acceptable noise level as to where it will not annoy people on blocks over. The last thing you want is the police to come and break up all the fun. <br /> What else do you have? Say you are throwing a block party on the 4th of July, you're going to want to make sure, you, or someone on the block has hook up to some damn good fireworks. Remember, their are tons of hot spots for people to go on the 4th. Make your block party worth it to come back every year. <br /> We have a neighbor at the end of the block who's husband works for Grucci. We always have the best fireworks in town. <br /> <b><i>POOL:</i></b><br /> If you have a pool, or a neighbor has one, ask if people can use it. If children are there always make sure their is an adult supervising the area. If it gets out of control close the pool up. If no one can supervise close it up. <br /> Also take turns supervising. No one wants to sit by the pool all day while everyone else is out having fun. Close the pool up at night. Lock all gates. It is dangerous for children to be swimming at night even with supervision. <br /> <b><i>BARRICADE IT!</i></b><br /> Once you have in order who is brining or making what your next step is to call the local town officials for a road barricade. No one wants cars driving through while a party is going on in the middle of the street. If anyone has friends or family coming in, make a designated parking spot. The roads will fill up fast, and probably inconvenience other people on other blocks due to the line of cars. Do make sure everyone guests do NOT park in someones driveway, or block anyone in. Being rude to those blocks over could land a phone call to the police. <br /> <i><b>Party Crashers...</b></i><br /> Sometimes neighbors from other blocks will hear the fun and try to sneak in. Keep a wary eye, you don't want any rude party crashers wreaking havoc. Usually they will try to blend in and do a good job of it. So long as they are well mannered don't make a big deal of it. However if you see these people just grubbing tons of food, ask them kindly to leave. You certainly don't want to feed someone whom has not chipped in. If you are too kind, before you know it, you will be feeding his whole family. Use hospitality, but sparingly when you are being taken advantage of. <br /> <b><i>FAMILY AND FRIENDS:</i></b><br /> A head count is not always necessary, but it is nice to have a good idea of just how many people are attending. Do ask neighbors if they are inviting an family or friends, and ask for an idea. A perfect number is unnecessary. <br /> <b>SETTING UP:</b><br /> A few hours before the party begins, you want to set up and make the neighborhood look inviting and fun. Hang balloons up on every single mailbox. Use streamers on fences, or party lights on fences, and bring out some candles. At night you want things lit up, the party does not have to stop just because night falls. Hand out glow necklaces and dollar store flashlights to children. Bring out any outdoor tents you may have, or ask neighbors to set up ones they may own. Set them up IN THE STREET for everyone to use. <br /> Be sure to set up lawn chairs, as many as you have. It does not matter who sits in them, just make them available to your neighbors. <br /> <b>CHILDREN:</b><br /> Children easily get bored and get annoying if there is not proper entertainment for them. Order a blow up trampoline, or if there is one in the neighborhood, drag it out into the front yard for everyone to use. Do monitor use of the trampoline, or at least make sure there is a safety gate around it. <br /> You may also have someone face paint, or even hire a clown to roam around for an hour or so. Cotton candy machines are also available for rent at local party supply stores, as well as popcorn machines. <br /> Bring out any fun activities for children, and adults alike. Bring out badminton, a soccer ball, set up a volleyball net, drag out a slip and slide for the kids, roll any basketball hoops into the street, and bring out a pile of old squirt guns you may have in the basement, or make a decent sized garbage pail filled with water balloons. A water balloon fight is fun for adults and children alike. Just take a look around your home, you may have more fun things than you think you do. <br /> While everyone is mingling and having a good time, it's easy to loose track of your child, always make sure you keep a close eye on your child, or anyone else's child. Having something bad happen to someone at a block party could cause the block party to be shut down never to occur again. <br /> Before you know it, you will have your entire block kicking, and a party that everyone will look forward to year after year- don't be shy, <i>go and mingle!</i><br /> HAVE FUN, &amp; <i>ENJOY!</i>A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-78109441594106381942014-07-31T15:28:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:28:17.686-04:00Archie Comics: So Does the Red Head Freckle Faced Kid Ever Get Laid?Let my dirty mind be honest, and share a dirty secret of mine that I have yet to tell anyone. Yes, consider yourselves all lucky, this is some exclusive personal information. <br /> I, Melissa Lynn, have been buying Archie comics for nearly 10 years because for some sick twisted reasoning, my mind tells me that <i>maybe,</i> just maybe, if the stars are lined up right Archie Andrews is going to nail that Betty. <br /> Comic after comic, digest after digest and still the poor red head barely even gets a kiss. Yes his eyes fill with hearts, and he drools, but he never even gets so much as a little titty squeeze, yet for some reason I keep buying the comics. I have some so old they're actually probably worth a decent amount of money by now. But before I sell them, I have to go through them all again and just double check, because yah know, maybe I missed a strip where some humping may have occurred. <br /> So what draws me to Archie comics, even when I <i>know</i> that Archie is <i>never</i> going to score? <br /> It's probably the thought that maybe it will happen, but its not just my sick thought, it's the comic itself. The characters, I grew up with them. I have been reading Archie's since I learned my ABC's. What's not to love about the freckle faced red head from Riverdale? The rich snob Veronica, and her best friend Betty, the wholesome beautiful blond that has a head on her shoulders. The doofus Moose, the teachers, the janitor, the parents, the characters that pop in randomly, never to be seen again in future issues. <br /> I love the cheesy jokes that have never changed, I love how Archie comics also include small skits Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Josie and the Pussycat Dolls, and Lil Jinx. <br /> I like the childish word hunts, and puzzles that the comics add in with the rest of the book. I love how I can branch out and purchase little Archie comics, Jughead comics, Betty &amp; Veronica, and other characters. <br /> <b><i>What else?</i></b><br /> My high hopes for the characters is also what keeps me buying them week after week. <br /> Betty &amp; Veronica have always been best friends, yet at the same time worst enemies. I hope tat one day Betty will wake up and sock that Veronica right in the crotch. <br /> I have continued reading because I have high hopes that Betty will finally win Archie's heart once and for all, while Veronica's dad looses all his money and she is forced to live in a trailer. I want to see Archie give Reggie the beating he deserves. <br /> This is probably the drive, and the real reason I continue to buy, even though I know none of these events will ever occur, I still buy it for the wholesome charming flair Archie comics have always presented. <br /> Archie comics have also taken on a new look. The whole gang has been re-drawn to look entirely different, yet at the same time, the same. I myself like these new drawings, however do hope they never, ever change the old school look to the characters for good. The new Archie's have new modern looks, new modern clothing, and make up. They also have a slew of new vocabulary. No more of that lame, <i>gnarly, awesome, totally, super cool, neat-o</i> phrases. <br /> <i>Hehehe...</i> with the new look, and new clothing, maybe they will also <i>do</i> something new. Ops, there goes my mind again, back in the gutter. <br /> <b><i>Where to get Archie comics?</i></b><br /> Everywhere really, comic book stores will carry the slim comics and digests, Walmart carries them, and any news stand is bound to carry copies. The prices vary from $2.00-$7.00 depending on the size you get and issue. <br /> <i><b>What to expect from Archie comics:</b></i><br /> Good wholesome teenage fun with some cheesy wise cracks, and lame pick up lines from Reggie. Expect to run into Jughead, and his huge appetite. Meet up with Veronica and watch as she shops till her dad drops. Watch how Betty gets ditched by Archie, as he goes out on a date with Veronica. Watch Moose outsmart those smarter than him. Just one comic and you will be hooked. <br /> Nearly each strip has a lesson to learn whether it be a happy one or a sad one. Each comic is filled with something new, and now 2 stories are ever the same. <br /> <b><i>More Archie fun:</i></b><br /> You can visit <a href="http://www.archiecomics.com/">www.Archiecomics.com</a> where you can play fun games, print pictures/posters, write letters, enter contests, and buy Archie and the gang gear. <br /> <b><i>Overall:</i></b><br /> Will Archie ever score? <i>Probably not,</i> but the journey I have taken with the gang since my childhood has been enjoyable either way. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-86867164169996872512014-07-31T15:23:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:23:22.938-04:00Guide on Getting Revenge! Exes Beware!!!Carrie Underwood was obviously a weak character when it came to her boyfriend cheating on her. It's obvious through her new song that she's new at this game called revenge. Come on now, who keys cars? That's so.. how shall I put this... <b>LAME!</b> Yeah it may sound like a cool idea in a song, but why start so pathetically small? <br /> You see, some people just need lessons when it comes to revenge. This guide is pure evil, share it with all your girlfriends who have just had their hearts broken. I'm about to share some really excellent tips on how to take care of the ex. <br /> Stop crying, he cheated on you. Don't dwell in the pain, or the anger. Get even, I find that when I get even my heart heals very fast and I am busy focusing on my next crime. The game becomes fun, cruel, and a bit over the top. But hey, what do you expect. When I get dumped, or I am wronged I am an emotional mess. I need someone to vent to, or on. <br /> My first step is to gather my most evil of friends. You see you don't have to plot everything for yourself, the help of those around you can make revenge so much sweeter. <br /> Ways in which I get revenge, and ways I have helped others get revenge. <br /> Latest victim - Walter. <br /> Walter - recently cheated on my cousin. <br /> Status - My cousin was living with him for 4 years, thinking she was happily in love and in a great healthy relationship. <br /> Damage - loss of time, broken heart, and the possibility of STD's. <br /> Revenge.... oh this is going to be good. 4 years of my dear cousins life wasted on slime like this. Slime that could jeopardize my cousins health, well this is going to be huge. The great Gusto! The one all the girls will talk about. <br /> Hhehehehehehehehe!!!!!!!!! <br /> My cousin was still living there at his house when we learned the news through a friend of his friends. I was present, and first I let her deal with the shock. He was inside when we told her the news. He was getting ready for work. Perfect. He was not going to be present. It's better this way. Having him around for this would just be bad. <br /> First she got over the initial shock, got mad, got sick, threw up, and then cried a tad. These are the usual steps one goes through when they find out their other half is out screwing random slobs. <br /> Once she was able to compose herself she began packing. She was coming to live with me. We didn't want her around this monster. Let him come home to an empty house and 'think' about why the house is empty. A true cheating moron would be confused, thinking he is slick, and even try and get her back after the fact. <br /> Anyways, we helped pack her things, and then we sat, smoked a lot of cigarettes and began discussing what to do next. Walter would be out for another 10 hours. We had all the time in the world. <br /> So...we had a yard sale. My cousin now needs some money to save up for her own home now. So instead of dragging everything on the lawn of his, we simply had an <b>OPEN HOUSE YARD SALE.</b> <br /> These are the most fun, you open all doors, and let people in. Let them name a price, and take it. We got $10 for his TV, $20 for all of his expensive golf equipment, $10 for the leather couch, and another ten for all the lamps. It was a 10 dollar take all deal for those lamps. I watched as my cousin went from sad, to sort of happy. Watching all of his things go out the door made her mood go from bad to ok. I was happy to see that. Really happy. God I did wish though that I was there to see the look on his face when he came home to an empty house. <br /> It honestly did not take long for nearly all of the contents in the house to walk out the door for dirt cheap. The point was not to make money, but to clear it out. In the midst of things emptying we found underwear that was not hers. She was angry again, so now we had to go to step 2. <br /> Letter writing. Basically this letter should consist of how much she loved him, and how much he hurt her, and how the tables are going to turn. Its all in all a threat. <br /> Walter cheated on her, and she basically knew that no matter what hell she was now going to put on him there was no way in hell he would call the cops. Because the cheater although he cheats still loves the girl he's two facing, oddly enough. <br /> We then took the underwear and let them hang from the only fan left in the house and turned it on. You know a present, in case idiot doesn't know what he did. <br /> After the letter is finished, and the belongings sold. I mean nearly everything. Leave a few pictures of you and him on the wall or kitchen counter, everything else though. Must go. <br /> This includes, food in the fridge. If you are the one who had always cooked for him, like my cousin was, throw it all out. Let him fend for himself for a change. Also throw out shower curtains, and any other things you could not sell. In the bathroom be sure to take a big poo and to dip his toothbrush into it afterward. Leave the poo globing off of it, just so he sees it. We don't want him using the poo brush, we just want him to know we are messed up enough to do it in an obvious fashion. This will make him wonder what other nasty nasties you have left behind. <br /> You want to break him down, instill fear. <br /> Next expect the idiot to be calling you once he gets home, or showing up wherever you may be. You would be surprised how psycho cheaters are able to stalk you down after you leave. When he/she calls. Hang the phone up. Don't even give them a moment to 'talk it over'. Hang up the phone! Ignore all calls, and if necessary call the cops if they show up where you are. <br /> Next lay low for a week or so. Round 2 comes next. <br /> Round 2 insists of stalking. Have a group of friends that he does not know well watch him. You will be surprised at how fast he tries to move on to a new vagina in your absence. Once you know who these new vagina's are make yourself known to them. Let them know you are his ex, and that he dumped you because you are pregnant. Something sick on that line so she avoids him from there on out. <br /> Round 2 also consists of ruining property. You already sold all he has left so you may as well begin ruining things. At night, or when he is not home, spray paint his car, fence, and house. Whichever one comes first does not matter. <br /> Of course he will know you did it, but unless you are stupid and get caught red handed there is no proving it. Hah! <br /> By now your heart probably feels much better, but why stop there. I would drive by every week and make sure I fill his mailbox with presents. You know, dog poop, kitty litter, mud, tampons, and sex toys such as large dildos, just so the neighbors can watch as he tries to hide it. <br /> By now he should be sick and tired of your games. He may try and call you to apologize, or to yell. Either way, hang up. You're almost done anyway. <br /> You can now let things go, and your heart should be all patched up and ready for round 3. <br /> Round 3 can come months or even a year later. Out of the blue and far enough away so that way he never thinks it is you. Round 3 is messing with his career. The great Gusto in the whole scheme. If you have been with him long, it is obvious you know where he works. So sabotage it. Call his boss, or call his corporation. Pretend you are a disgruntled customer. The boss will most likely have a talk with him, and keep him anyway. However if you spread these calls out in 2 month time spans it will start to look like he honestly is a bad employee, and will eventually be let go. <br /> This sort of thing can be difficult if he owns his own company. <br /> So for those of you whom have exes whom own their own company's, there is nothing you can do there. <br /> Fear not though, there are even more excellent steps when it comes to getting even with an Ex. Fake black magic. This is always fun and for your own personal amusement. My cousin had clothing of his, so we simply cut up his clothes and sewed together a little doll that resembled him. A voodoo doll if you will. We then placed the doll with pins in his mailbox. He of course knew it was the works of her, but eh.. by now you have stopped caring about what he <i>thinks</i> he knows vs what he does. <br /> Almost every month we would then scatter his front lawn with chicken bones we would save up from past meals. We of course placed the bones in odd patterns that looked as if it had something to do with witchcraft. <br /> Whether or not it scared him, the thought of being cursed is now instilled in his mind, and who knows he may create his own bad luck from here on out without the help of us. <br /> They have been apart for some time now, and things are back to normal. However, you never know, when my cousin may get that painful pang and want to go for a round 4 or 5. <br /> But by the time round 3 occurs most likely you are already back to your normal happy self, your heart healed and all, yet you continue just because... well, you are a little crazy, and it's fun! Hahahaha. <br /> Ladies, and gentlemen, the moral of the story is <i>'be careful who you mess with. Be careful who you hurt, because no matter how innocent they may seem, each and every person has a demon inside just waiting to get to work.</i>A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-71945420399541306862014-07-31T15:16:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:16:55.295-04:00Harry Potter Parties, Freebies, Facts and Contests!Harry Potter fans stretch out all across the world. I myself am a huge fan, but going to world wide Harry Potter events are so far out of my budget that I could not even consider it. <br /> However Harry Potter, like I said is everywhere. We on Long Island have our very own Harry Potter meeting group. Yep, thats right, anyone can join, and it is absolutely free. <br /> Basically this group gets together and will discuss everything from the movie to the actual actors. It gives people a chance to meet up with other fans of the book and movie. The group has their meetings set up in Hicksville, New York, the site gives information on new members, and new meetings and events. For more information on this group, and to sign up simply visit <a href="http://harrypotter.meetup.com/480/?gj=sj5">http://harrypotter.meetup.com/480/?gj=sj5</a>. <br /> That's not all though, Harry Potter fans can join a Harry Potter Party to celebrate the premier of the movie. All you have to is visit <a href="http://www.potterparties.com/">www.potterparties.com</a>. There are over 5,000 Potter parties . You can search for them on the site by simply adding your city and state to see if there are any parties going on in your area. Borders will also be hosting a Midnight Magic party where there will be games, treats, and giveaways. This particular party start at 9pm on July 15th. Barnes and Nobles will also be hosting Harry Potter party's at 660 of their stores. There will be games, give aways, and story time. For more information visit <a href="http://www.borders.com/">www.borders.com</a> and <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/">www.barnesandnoble.com</a>. <br /> You may also visit <a href="http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/whatsnewhot/a/hpparty.htm">http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/whatsnewhot/a/hpparty.htm</a> for information on planning and hosting your very own Harry Potter 6 and 7 party. <br /> Fun Facts about Harry Potter and Sayville, Long Island New York: <br /> Visit <a href="http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/Evils%20in%20America/Sodomy/gayville.htm">http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/Evils%20in%20America/Sodomy/gayville.htm</a>, to see where the author has made references to Harry Potter and Sayville on Long Island New York. Read about conspiracy theory's about Sabrina The Teenage Witch and Harry Potter, and how some feel that the whole Harry Potter concept has something to do with homosexuality? <i>Okay! Whatever, moving on...</i><br /> <b><u>The Harry Potter Virus:</u></b><br /> Man we can't get enough of him, it's just making us sick. Maybe not literately physically sick. But as of now there is an actual Harry Potter computer virus going around, and Harry Potter fans are warned to not open any emails containing any information regarding the book. The email claims to have book 6 available to download. This may be convincing to some fans, as they hit download, what they are really getting is the virus. In desktop a file called 'HarryPotter-TheDeathlyHallows.doc'. For more information on the Harry Potter virus visit <a href="http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2193147/harry-potter-worm-claims-young">http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2193147/harry-potter-worm-claims-young</a>. <br /> I was also surprised to come into an article written by Judy Blume trying to make statements about Harry Potter could be considered evil. Read it here at <a href="http://www.judyblume.com/articles/harry_potter_oped.html">http://www.judyblume.com/articles/harry_potter_oped.html</a>. <br /> <b><u>HARRY POTTER CONTESTS:</u></b><br /> I know every fan out there would love to win a life like Harry Potter magic wand, and right now it is possible to win one from <a href="http://www.alivans.com/Win-A-Magic-Wand.htm">http://www.alivans.com/Win-A-Magic-Wand.htm</a>. Simply fill out the form and hope for the best. <br /> However the best thing I ran into while searching for all things Harry Potter was the unique endings created by actual Harry Potter fans. At this site you can read fan endings to the book. <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/08/opinion/08potterintro.html">http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/08/opinion/08potterintro.html</a>. <br /> <a href="http://www.needcoffee.com/2007/07/04/contest-win-harry-potter-swag/">http://www.needcoffee.com/2007/07/04/contest-win-harry-potter-swag/</a> is raffling off some Harry Potter swag, which includes a poster, teaser poster, logo pen, a tattoo, and a tank top for women. Visit the site and fill out the form for your chance to win. <br /> At <a href="http://www.superheroflix.com/news/89/20889.php">http://www.superheroflix.com/news/89/20889.php</a>, they are giving away a whole slew of Harry Potter prizes to many individuals. Visit the site and fill out the form for your chance at winning one of these great prizes. <br /> Tattoo Sheets, <br /> Engraved Dog Tags, <br /> "Dumbledore's Army" Hat <br /> Kids' "Dumbledore's Army" Tee <br /> American Apparel "Death Eaters" Tee <br /> Women's "Dumbledore's Army" Tank Tee <br /> "4-pack" Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix button set <br /> Wooden Notebook with Quill Pen &amp; Ink <br /> Custom Leather Bag debossed with Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix <br /> Scene It? ® Harry Potter ™ 2nd Edition DVD Game <br /> LEGO Hogwarts Castle <br /> NECA Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Series <br /> Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix The Videogame for PS2 <br /> Basically there is enough fun to go around for every Harry Potter fan. To find cool Harry Potter local events simply google Harry Potter and the name of your hometown. A whole slew of fun events should pop up. If not, create one yourself. <br /> Freebies: <br /> Here you can get free Harry Potter wallpaper for your desktop. <a href="http://members.outpost10f.com/%7Elindax/harrypotter/wallpaper.html">http://members.outpost10f.com/~lindax/harrypotter/wallpaper.html</a>, you can also find some here at <a href="http://www.wallpaperbase.com/movie-harrypotter.shtml">http://www.wallpaperbase.com/movie-harrypotter.shtml</a>. <br /> You may also down free Harry Potter screen savers here <a href="http://www.scholastic.com/harrypotter/downloads/screensaver.htm">http://www.scholastic.com/harrypotter/downloads/screensaver.htm</a>. <br /> Enjoy, and happy Harry Hunting. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-25659377744573118372014-07-31T15:13:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:13:24.162-04:00How to Deal with Nasty Employees While You Are Shopping Did She Just Cuss at Me? Who here is sick and tired of rude out of control employees? I'm not talking about the morons you work with, I'm talking about the girl or guy behind the counter, the one that takes your money. The one that would not even have a frigging paycheck if it were not for <i>your</i> money! <br /> I can almost guarantee everyone reading this has dealt with the angry employee before. <br /> How many times have you gone into a Walmart or some other store and had an employee treat you like you were some sort of animal, when all you did was ask for a little assistance? Is this not what they are paid for? <br /> My issues began around Christmas time back in 2005. My cousin and I were shopping for... the obvious; gifts. We were in a local Target and the entire store was in shambles. This is expected though, people are slobs, and the majority of people are out and about shopping this time of year in bucket loads. Okay no big deal, I can step around the clothes on the floor, the bouncing balls left in aisles, I can even take a detour around the area known as clearance. Clearance sections are danger zones. <br /> What I can't get around though is the lack of pricing on shelves. I pick up a product, and I don't know its price. No problem, Target has made it convenient for its shoppers by adding in price code machines. Simply run the bar code under the scanner, and wallah, the price pops up. <br /> These areas though, are usually filled with piles of things on the floor from previous shoppers that do not go and put the items back. Can't say I blame them, not everyone has the time to go and return things back to counters where they belong. Besides its not their fault the damn thing didn't have a price tag on it. <br /> So my cousin and I have a wagon full of items that were not tagged, nor did they have the price on the shelf, so we found ourselves a price checker and began checking away. A lot of things were reasonably priced, where other things were not. Because we were on our way out, we placed the items near the huge mess of other items left by others. It was not much, together we had maybe placed down 4 or 5 items. We had a Christmas party to attend, and we were running late, so we honestly did not have the time to retrace our steps to return things to their proper place. Nonetheless, I should not have to make excuses. I am a customer, this sort of behavior is expected, but what happened next was totally random, and totally rude. <br /> As we began walking away, an employee ran up to us yelling, how it is rude to leave things behind and not to put them back. That she should not have to 'pick up' after us. <br /> We walked away and made our way over to the book section just to hide from her. Literately, we, the customers, the paying customers were hiding from an employee! <br /> When we thought the coast was clear we made our way back over to the counter person, to check out. However this crazy employee was not done. She went over to a group of other employees, and pointed at us while saying, 'there, those girls right there left it behind.' <br /> By now, my attitude went from annoyed, to straight up pissed off. I went over to her, and asked if she was done with her rant. My cousin then chimed in and asked 'aren't you paid to clean up? Is this not what you are paid to do?'. <br /> She rolled her eyes and sarcastically said, 'happy holidays girls'. <br /> We then decided we would leave our cart filled with gifts right there in front of her. 'Have a good night, do me a favor and put this all back, I wish to no longer purchase anything thanks to you, (checking her name tag) <i>Colleen'.</i><br /> A stream of cuss words than followed from her mouth. <br /> Another huge issue I have, not once did we cuss at her, or even get nasty with her. We tried avoiding her, and still she came at us like that. It's obvious this core needed a tampon, and a boot out the door. People like this should not be working, period! <br /> The next day I made a phone call to corporation, and also made it a point to write a letter to the company about their lovely employee. They gave me a lame apology, and that was it. I figured they would at least of given us a gift card, or some satisfaction by telling us she would be taken care of. I just don't understand why corporations are protecting employees like this, when there are loads of people looking for a job. Good people, who actually enjoy getting paid, vs ones who actually chase customers out the door. <br /> But why, why should I have had to of dealt with this B.S right before Christmas time? <br /> Next I take you to the lovely land of Walmart. You know that god for saken video game section, the area where they leave their crap all locked up, yet they will keep $300 cameras right out on counters... yeah that section. Why is it, when you want to buy a game no one is ever available to help you? Yet when there is someone available they are busy flirting with another employee. <br /> This was my case on one of my many Walmart nightmare shopping experiences. I waited patiently at the counter staring her down like fresh meat. She looked back at me, and ignored me so she could get her soft core porn session back on with the young man standing there with her. I continued to stare, and seriously must have been there for a good 3 minutes until finally I grew some balls and asked her politely to ring me up. <br /> Her reply: "Don't cop no attitude wiff me!" <br /> That was it... I went ballistic. I basically told her I had stood there waiting while she was busy getting phone numbers from other workers. Not once was I rude out of line, or even mad...until she went on with that first reaction to me wanting to get rung up. <br /> She rolled her eyes at me, grabbed my money, and basically tossed the bag at me. Fu** that noise. Things got ugly when I told her that if she wanted to see an attitude she sure as hell was about to. She then walked away from me. <br /> I reported it immediately to the store manager, who had her come up front to apologize. I got great satisfaction knowing that we were not the only ones she had been rude to, and I also got great satisfaction watching the manager fire her in front of me. <br /> Walmart may hire rude employees, but they sure as hell weed them out when the time arises, so mad props to Walmart for that. <br /> My most recent event happened at a local deli while out with my niece for breakfast. We stopped in for some eggs. 2 rolls, one with just eggs and cheese, and the other with bacon, eggs and ketchup. I don't know who likes ketchup on eggs, but my niece does, so... <br /> The man seemed genuinely confused. Was it his first day? I repeated the order once again, and he made his way to the back grill. I watched as he poured ketchup on one roll, and left the other alone. <br /> Next out of nowhere my niece starts blowing a fit that she wants hers on a bagel. The guy seemed pissed, and I didn't blame him. He now had to waste the roll with the ketchup on it to make it on a bagel now. <br /> However instead of getting rid of the ketchup infested roll, I watched as he wiped a wet rag across the roll to remove the ketchup and obviously use that roll with my order. I was shocked, but did not say anything until he gave me the bag. I wanted to be 100% sure I saw what I saw before making an issue. <br /> I opened the bag, her bagel was fine. Eggs, bacon and ketchup, just as she wanted. However when I opened my eggs and cheese roll, and lifted the bun, sure enough I could see where he had wiped the ketchup off of it. <br /> I didn't even want to argue. I grabbed my nieces bagel, threw it in the bag with my egg roll, and left it on the counter as I walked out. Mr. Smarty pants had the nerve to yell to me that I had to 'pay for that'. <br /> Hah! Pay for what, my roll that had just been swiped with a dirty rag? Over my dead body. <br /> A personal favorite of mine while shopping is the employee who looks like he/she is going to kill you because you stepped on their line. The ones that are so miserable and depressed. They don't say hi, they don't smile, and they do not even say 'have a nice day/night'. <br /> I usually let these employees be. But when I think of it long and hard, why? Why should I let them be? They are being paid, my job in food and counter sales have all sucked, but you know what, I always said hello, I always said have a nice night, even if my smile was fake, I smiled. Yes I was miserable, but I didn't not have to let off the vibe that I hate everything, and don't even want your business. <br /> It's obvious workers who carry on in this miserable smile free fashion are only working until they get fired, which won't take much. Workers like this are probably already not liked by management, and honestly all it takes is one nasty letter from a customer to get them fired. <br /> Which brings me to my next point. Let all get together and weed out crap like this. We do not deserve to walk into a store to be stalked, cussed at, or treated with disrespect. <br /> When you have an issue with an employee, always alert the highest management in the store at the time. Next ask that manager for the supervisors phone number and the corporations phone number. <br /> Complain to all 3 of these people one day at a time. Let them know you are not giving up until you know the employee was either fired, or will be writing you a letter of apology. <br /> Don't stop there, your next step is to then write a letter to the corporation or company. Trust me, the more people that have to hear your story the more annoyed they become, until finally they rid themselves of the problem. In easy terms, employee terminated. <br /> However my final words are: <i><b>Be fair.</b></i> Do not think you need to be <i>even Steven</i> if <b>YOU</b> were the one that provoked the employee. <br /> Some customers have bad days and take it out on employees, this is why they are miserable. <i>Hehe</i>. So do know if you have a bad experience with an employee that you should step back and see if perhaps you may of caused the issue. <br /> If so, leave it at that. There is no need to alert the friggin media. <br /> Although many company's train their employees to be nice to even the most wicked of customers, there is always that one that may burst on you, and most likely you deserved it. <br /> Do realize the difference between a bad employee vs your own bad attitude towards them. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-49618518106126158402014-07-31T15:09:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:09:59.618-04:00My Shopping Pet PeevesI love shopping, love, love, love it. Hell, I'd even shop for someone else, and still enjoy it. But like any shop-o-haulic, all it takes is one bad experience; one itty bitty little thing that is off, that can throw this whole wonderful experience into the dumps. <br /> I figured I would list these things, that, piss me off while I am shopping. <br /> 1. Of course a rude employee can ruin an entire shopping excursion. You know the ones, blowing gum bubbles in your face, the ones frowning, and the ones who have a hard time saying hi, or goodbye. <br /> 2. I get really mad when someone stops their cart right in the middle of the isle while you are behind them. Then they will whip up a conversation while I, and a group of other disgruntled shoppers wait it out. No matter how many times you say excuse me, they still sit there acting deaf to the situation. I usually will cuss, or slam my cart into theirs if I am pissed enough. It seems to work? Go figure, giving rudeness back to rudeness seems to work. <br /> 3. I hate when something is placed in the sale bin, and when I bring it up to the counter, it's not on sale. <br /> 4. I get pissed when something actually is on sale, and the idiot employee rings it up for a non sale price, yet when I tell them it is on sale, they have me wait 10 minutes while a manager comes over to fix it. <br /> 5. A nice shopping trip can be ruined before you even step foot into the store, for one, someone can steal your parking spot, or two some moron has their stupid out of control 5 year old push the cart right into your ankles as you attempt to walk into the store. <br /> 6. Over crowding! I can't stand it. I'm not talking about a crowded store either, I'm talking about when you are looking at toothpaste, and all of a sudden a big fat fatty stands so close to you that you can smell her sweat. This big fat fatty knows what she is doing, <i>she</i> is chasing <i>you</i> away so <i>she</i> can have a closer look at what <i>you</i> are looking at. <br /> You can either leave, say excuse me, or have a stand off. It's up to you, and your mood at this point. I usually say excuse me in the most pissy of attitudes. I don't like people with their god damn diseases breathing down my neck, or even standing close enough to me as to where their lice can hop into my hair. <br /> People need to wait their damn turn before just steeping up so closely to someone else, because one of these days some unlucky little lady is going to get a fist in her face. <br /> 7. Spilled milk! I don't cry over it, but I certainly do not like stepping in it while I'm out food shopping. For that matter, they may as well clean up the cracked bottle of ketchup on isle 4. <br /> 8. <i>Smelling smoke!</i> I am a smoker, but I certainly do not want to smell it while I'm shopping. I don't know what manager is in the back room thinking it is okay to puff away while people are in the next room over. We smell your smoke, please take it outside. I also hate smelling weed. I don't know how many times I have gone into craft shops in the city smelling marijuana all around the store. It's rude, it's nasty, and employees doing this should be fired. <br /> 9. Cussing customers. As if dealing with rude employees isn't enough, you are almost bound to run into a group of rebellious thugs walking around with their asses hanging out and cussing up a storm with each sentence they speak. For one, their are children around, and 2 cussing in public really makes you look low class. As if hanging your pants down to the floor isn't nasty enough, they go and talk nasty too. <br /> 10. PDA- That's right, <i>public displays of affection</i>. I don't mind seeing someone hug or give a cheek kiss in stores when they meet up with someone they know. But when I see people making out and feeling each other up, I want to throw up. No one wants to smell your sex. Keep it at home you damn slobs. <br /> 11. Loud obnoxious children! Now don't get me wrong. I love kids, but I cannot stand it when I come across a mother and her rude vile child who is throwing things, screaming that they want this and need that, and running up and down isles as the mother goes about her business like the child is not even hers. It's obvious the kid needs to be taken out back for a smack down. I don't care how many people say don't hit your kids! I got hit as a kid, and I grew up with morals, and respect! Maybe more kids these days need a smack down every now and then. <br /> 12. Tits. Yeah tits, I said tits. Bulging nasty deformed tits. I have tits, I'm a woman. But I don't understand why woman have to flop their tits out to feed their kid. I don't care how many woman out there have fought for this stupid law. It should not be allowed anywhere, and don't give me that B.S about how a man can go shirtless, and how I am sexist. Again, <i>I'm a woman</i>. I do not want to see mothers breast feeding out in restaurants, or in play palaces in malls. Have a little respect for people around you. Yes I understand your kid has to eat! Take it to the bathroom then, or your car. No one wants to see your damn purple ta-tas. I don't know how many times I have had to have 'talks' with my 4 year old niece because of mothers who have no respect for anyone but themselves and their hungry baby! Think about the <i>kids</i> around you who have to watch <i>your</i> kid eating from <i>your</i> tit! <br /> 13. Places that stay open while they are renovating! Instead of warning shoppers about renovations, we are greeted at the front door with hammering, saw dust, and nasty construction workers. If a store is having renovations they should close down for a few days, instead of having shoppers come in risking health and safety. Our local Kohl's has just been renovating, and they had shoppers walk around the saw dust, the scrap metal, the nails, and other tools they had lying around. I find this uncomfortable, and extremely greedy for a company to do this. <br /> 14. Next.... I cannot stand it when I am done shopping and I go up to check out only to see that there is only one frigging employee to check everyone out. The line is huge, and it takes almost 20 minutes just to check out. How the hell is their only one employee on counter? Seriously whoever manages stores like this should be fired. <br /> 15. Cut! The line cutter pisses me off more than anything. I had one jerk at the bank cut me the other day, and his little plan didn't work out as planned. Hah! The line was out the door, and I of course was the one right at the door, when a teen-aged boy comes through saying excuse me. As if I was holding the door open for him or something. So I move out of the way, and he simply cuts right in front of me. I at first assumed he was going over to the side counter to get some deposit slips or something. But no, he cut right in front of me. So I let it slide, up until he was next on line. I then said, 'you're not really going to cut me are you? I was not holding the door open for you before. It's pretty damn rude that you would think your going next after I already had waited 10 minutes before you even got here.' <br /> The loser apologized, and let me go ahead. I then topped it off with a cuss word here and there. Sorry, but I can't stop cussing when some little retard tries to take advantage of me. <br /> 16. Weather can also ruin a shopping trip. It can be a sun shiny day when you head out to shop, and the moment you are about to exit the car into the store, it pours. Walking around a wet rag just ruins a good shopping day. <br /> There are many other means that people, and surrounding events can totally destroy a shopping excursion. Honestly there are so many negative factors surrounding shopping, that I can honestly say, maybe once a year I have a pleasant one. Other than that I am surrounded by a rude world, cruel weather, and events that I cannot controlA Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-997438164555165202014-07-31T15:07:00.007-04:002014-07-31T15:07:57.254-04:00Do You Really Need an Expensive Wedding?Recently I was discussing weddings, expenses, and bratty brides who get what they want or they will cry until either someone gives them their way, or they end up split up before they could even say 'I do'. <br /> The thing I don't understand about weddings nowadays are costs. I don't understand why woman think that they need this entire ceremony, and hugely expensive wedding just to say ' want to be with you forever.' Why do they feel they need ice sculptures in shapes of hearts, or butter blocks in shapes of roses, and watermelon carved out to resemble a chariot? <br /> I'm a 25-year-old gal with wedding bells on the mind, and yes these dream weddings have always appealed to me as a child. Where fairy tales seemed all to real, however these supposed fairy tale weddings I have attended all too many times, and you know what? There is <i>nothing</i> fairy tale about them. <br /> After attending 3 of them as a bridesmaid, I have come to realize that these big extravagant weddings all have a lot in common. The more expensive weddings I have attended the more I realized they were like cookie cutter weddings, with all the same shit as the next. All the same expensive shit, and for what? To dance around your little ballroom, act like a fairy princess and think that your guests actually give a shit about you and your new hubby? Most likely all of your guest will leave hating you, wishing you a divorce, and angry that you just cost them money for your own stupid selfish ceremony. Most of these supposed fairy tale weddings cost anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000+. Most of these weddings I have attended all ended in a divorce just a few years later. Poor chaps should have known though, they ended up marrying selfish little spoiled brats who wanted a <i>'dream wedding, or else'.</i><br /> A tip to men, if you hear the word, <i><b>dream, fairy tale, or chariot</b></i>, run... and run early. Girls like this are after nothing but the richer things in life. They don't marry for love, they marry for money. It's just too bad that it takes $50,000+ to figure that out. By then you will already be in debt praying you can afford the divorce. <br /> But hey, I'm no guy... I am a girl... but those warning signs should be fair enough that you got yourself a gold digger. However this article is covering wedding costs, my next one will be about gold diggers. I'm sure I will have tons of women hating on me after this one, and that one. But bah! Whatever. <br /> Anyways, back on topic to weddings, like I have said before, I should want a dream wedding. I fall right into the age category of girls <i>who get what they want</i>, or they move on to the next victim. But I have actually, (I know this may surprise some of you); I have actually <i>fallen in love</i>. Once I fell in love I realized I didn't need this white horse to carry me to the chapel. I didn't need a carpet of silk roses, nor did I need the ice sculptures, the expensive food, the DJ, or the catering. All I needed was <i>him.</i> I don't need a $50,000, 10 hour event just to say <i>I want you forever</i>. I already knew that, what did I have to prove? Do I need to spend this much money just so <i>'others'</i> know how deep our love is? The answer to that is hell to the NO. <br /> <b><i>What is the point of this whole speech?</i></b><br /> The point is to try and get girls with platinum wedding minds to get over themselves, and to know that they can have a lovely wedding party for pennies on the dollar, if they are just willing to put aside their own selfish needs and think about their future with this person, and not the one day where you say your vows. Remember, a wedding is just <i>one day</i>, the rest of it lasts a lifetime. <br /> A tip for the bridezillas, <i>*tantrums make you look pathetic and needy, but also odds are if you don't shape up, he one day is going to ship you out, and like most platinum weddings, they end in divorce almost as fast as you can say '<b>I do.'</b></i><br /> My wedding will consist of a back yard barbeque like Britney Spears and K-Fed. A small group of close family and friends, my dad at the grill, a few balloons, and the exchange of vows is just enough. But even after all of that, all I <i>really</i> need is <i>him</i>, what more could I ask for? <br /> <i><b>Tips for a cheap yet lovely wedding:</b></i><br /> 1. Blow up your own balloons, rent a helium machine for a few bucks, and buy some white balloons. Heck, use any color you would like. Decorate your back yard with tons of them. You can even make your own balloon archway by tying balloons together in clusters. <br /> 2. Place tons of candles in the yard, or make your own lit walkway with the candles. <br /> 3. Have a family member do the grilling. You don't need caviar and tar-tar. Throw out some chips, soda, dips, and vegetables. Buy some hot dogs, buy some buns. <br /> 4. Let your wedding party wear what they want, so long as it's not jeans and a t-shirt. Save them some money for cryin out loud. Not everyone can afford an expensive wedding, but keep in mind not everyone can afford to come to your expensive wedding! Make things easy on yourself, your budget, and everyone else. <br /> 5. Leave cameras on tables around the yard. Let your guests take photos, you really don't need to hire a photographer. You'd be surprised to learn that cheap one time use cameras work pretty well, and you also will be surprised that your 5 year old cousins can take some pretty professional photos. <br /> Honestly there are tons of easy and beautiful ways to make a lovely wedding for pennies on the dollar, just use a little of your own imagination, and before you know it, your $5,000 wedding can easily be just as graceful and lovely as some <b>'soon to be divorced'</b> bridezillas $50,000 wedding. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-37238601818934763382014-07-31T15:07:00.004-04:002014-07-31T15:07:27.801-04:00Crest Whitestrips: Do They Really Whiten Teeth?<div class="content_area" id="content_article"> Everyone wants a bright white smile. But not everyone has bright white teeth, so we are forced to hide behind a half smile trying to block people from seeing our actual teeth. Many people suffer from nicotine stains, and coffee stains, and some of us just look like we have sucked on a stick of yellow butter our whole lives. There is a solution to yellow stained teeth though, and the solution is actually not a trip to the dentist for expensive bleaching and whitening techniques. The solution to a whiter brighter smile is Crest Whitestrips. <br /> Crest Whitestrips promise whiter teeth in just 7 days, but let me tell you from a users point of view, that you can actually see a result in just one session. <br /> Each box of classic Crest Whitestrips comes with 54 strips. 28 are designed for your upper teeth, while the other 28 are made for your bottoms. The classic pack is meant for 1 year of use. However I tend to use 1 for the bottom, and 1 for the top once a day for a week straight. After that, I then use them once a week. <br /> The strips simply wrap onto your bottom and top teeth. You are to peel them off of the protective plastic strip, and apply them to your teeth with the gel side touching the teeth. Leave them on for 30 minutes, and then you are to rinse off your teeth of any left over gel. Do not eat, drink, sleep, or smoke while wearing the strips. <br /> You can view a demo on how to apply them to your teeth at http://www.whitestrips.com/en_US/about_whitestrips/usingCrestWhitestrips.jsp. <br /> After just one 30-minute session using the strips, I could actually clearly see a difference. My teeth were not pearly white at this point, but I was able to see them move up a shade in white. I was surprised. <br /> By day 7 I had teeth whiter than I thought I would have. By day 10 people even asked me how I was able to smoke and keep such white teeth. I didn't want to tell them my secret, but after looking at their teeth I figured I might as well start small and spread the word to one person. Who knows, maybe in a few years everyone would know about these strips, and everyone I encountered would have fabulously white teeth. <br /> After day 15, I knew that my teeth where as pearly white as I needed them. Any whiter and they'd start to glow. I left the strips in the box for a few months, and my teeth were still just as white as ever. <br /> However months later I noticed they looked a bit dull. One strip later, and they were back to their super white color. <br /> There is nothing better than a white shiny smile. I no longer worry about my teeth, or am self-conscious thinking they look like corn kernels. <br /> I highly recommend that anyone looking to gain whiter teeth buy Crest Whitestrips. <br /> Crest Whitestrips come in many different formulas, such as premium strips that come with a more powerful gel that will get teeth whiter faster. However it is my opinion that the classics are all you will need. <br /> Crest Whitestrips can be found in any super store such as Wal*mart, Target, and Kmart for around $30.00. I know the price may seem high, but trust me the results you will see in just 1 day are amazing. After 7 days you will be addicted to whitening your teeth, and after a month you will find that you no longer need to apply them religiously. <br /> One minor issue with Whitestrips is that sensitive teeth may feel irritation. I myself experienced slight discomfort after long-term use. I simply quit using them weekly, and would only use them bi-weekly and the problem went away. <br /> The best things about Crest Whitestrips are that if you are not 100% satisfied you can get your money back. Simply return your receipt and package UPC within 60 days of purchase. Call 1-800-208-0169 for more information. <br /> However after you try them, I honestly think you will see whiter results, and you will love the product enough to buy them time and time again. Right now you can even visit the site at <a href="http://www.whitestrips.com/">www.whitestrips.com</a> for a $7.00 off coupon. <br /> </div><div class="acDialogFoot clearfix"><div class="acDialogButtons"><a class="cancelButton" href="https://contributor.yahoo.com/#">Close</a></div></div>A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-16591572104266301902014-07-31T15:07:00.001-04:002014-07-31T15:07:04.672-04:00Recognizing a Gold DiggerI'm not saying men are stupid, because a lot of my friends are men. But I will say that a lot of guys are blindfolded when it comes to a nice booty and a hot pair of jugs. I have no problem being dirty and speaking raunchy like that, this is probably why I have a lot of guy friends. But as a woman, I also have to have my fair share of girlfriends. But for me, it sometimes seems difficult to keep girlfriends, as they tend to lie, manipulate and steal. Where men, I can just get down with them, farting, burping, and spitting if I need to spit without hearing the girly screeches of <i>'eeewwwww'.</i><br /> I don't like girls. I am a girl, but go figure, I can't stand the rest of them. <br /> I have only 2 real girl friends, and the rest came and went like a season. They sort of latched on to me because they thought farting was funny, or found that they could tell me anything. Even when I didn't want to hear anything. For quite some time I even thought that this girls would warm up to me because they were lesbians. Maybe I gave off a lesbian vibe? Whatever it is though, they seem to latch on, annoy me with their issues, and before I know it I have a pain in the rear sidekick I just want to get rid of. <br /> One of my latest latch on friends is gold digging Lilly. I can't stand her, yet I keep her around just to hear her stories, or to see what she got <i>him</i> to buy her today. You see Lilly is hot, blond, has big fake boobs, a small butt, and tiny waist. She basically is a trophy girlfriend, a wholesome look that mom and dad will love, and a flirty flair that guys adore. Hell, I could see how men easily fell for her, but I knew deep down she never fell for them. <br /> Her latest victim was Charlie. I knew she didn't like him, he was a guy totally different from the typical Lilly guys. He for one was fat, going bald, almost 10 years older than her, and his personality was blah. But like the typical male pig he was, he only saw a bang. I guess it serves him right. Lilly pretty much took him for everything he had, and left him to rot. <br /> I have been friends with her for a few years and I watched her gold digging ways turn in stages. You see gold digging comes slowly, and once it starts to work without consequences, it becomes a disease. I watched Lilly go from silver digging, to gold digging, and quickly after that came platinum digging. <br /> Digging, for any digger comes in these stages, so I figured I would share the first signs of gold digging. <br /> 1. As a guy you most likely would buy dinner. Correct? But my female question to you is, why? Whenever I go out with a guy, I make sure I pay my own. At least at first. No way in hell do I want him thinking he can buy me dinner, then take me to bed. <br /> Before you know it, if you buy her dinner once, you will be paying all of the time. May as well throw a movie into the mix as well. <br /> Silver stages include the little things, they may not be expensive as of yet, so you may not mind paying. Other silver stages include the following. <br /> 1. Buying her carnival tickets <br /> 2. Buying her theme park tickets <br /> 3. Buying her cheap jewelry from Claire's or Wal*mart <br /> 4. Buying her food <br /> 5. Buying her shoes, or cheap end clothing. <br /> Silver digging gets boring though, and as soon as she has a pretty good idea of just how much you get paid she will dip into gold digging, and as she is gold digging she will mix it up with silver stages so it seems innocent. <br /> Gold digging consists of you buying her dinner, and a group of her friends as well. Gold digging consists of <br /> 1. Buying her higher end brand name clothing <br /> 2. Buying her actual gold jewelry <br /> 3. Giving her actual money <br /> 4. Paying for her car insurance <br /> 5. Paying for things such as nail salon visits, tanning salon sessions, and beauty spas. <br /> Once she gets a taste of the gold, she will then quickly move on to platinum digging. Who would of thought there was anything left to dig. <br /> Platinum digging can be recognized easily, and even people around you will be asking you why you continue to pay. Here are some signs that say you are in way too deep, and it is time to kick her ass to the curb if you already haven't. <br /> 1. She has moved in. <br /> 2. You are paying her bills <br /> 3. You buy her a car because her old one 'isn't running too good anymore'. <br /> 4. You share a credit card with her <br /> 5. She has a weekly allowance <br /> 6. She manages to get you to buy her platinum jewelry, diamonds etc... <br /> 7. She takes up an expensive hobby at your expense. <br /> 8. She decorates your home according to her standards <br /> 9. She demands things now, where before she would ask, or at least give you a blow. <br /> There are tons of signs when it comes to gold digging, but in my opinion the most important key to recognizing it is in the beginning, when you are not exclusive. If the woman offers to pay for her own meal, she's a sure keeper. A gold digger will not even offer, and may take off to the bathroom when the bill comes. <br /> It is so cliche that a man should pay for dinner on a first date. A good honest woman knows this, don't be fooled by fake hair, fake nails, and fake smiles. Recognize it from the get go, and save yourself thousands and thousands of dollars, as well as headaches. <br /> Ladies, also recognize male gold diggers, females are not the only ones who dig for gold these days. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-63921715024278221392014-07-31T10:24:00.005-04:002014-07-31T10:24:43.468-04:00Review: The FitnessQuest Gazelle Glider Freestyle Elite Tony Little, I Couldn't Do It!I got a great gift 2 years ago, (or so I thought) and figured I would share my experiences with Tony Little and his FitnessQuest Gazelle Glider Freestyle Elite. <br /> The advertisements is what drew me in. A machine that would provide a cardiovascular workout that equals to running. It was too good to be true! I had to have it! Had to! <br /> The Gazelle came in a large box, but it was small enough to fit into the back of any truck. The machine took about an hour to put together, and t included a lot of cussing, and yelling. Sigh. Merry Freaking Christmas! <br /> After every bolt and screw was tightened I hopped on and giggled. I finally had this dream machine all to myself. I placed one foot on each foot pad, but the moment I hopped on, I nearly fell off. Sigh. <br /> <b>MONITOR:</b><br /> The Gazelle FitnessQuest came with an attached monitor, here you can view how long you have been working out, how many calories you have burned, you can also view your heart rate, and the distance you have covered. You can view each setting with the press of a button. The monitor also requires batteries. That sort of annoyed me, but in all honestly the batteries that came with the Gazelle still work. So thats pretty dang good, but it could also just be a reflection on how often I <i>'don't'</i> use it. <br /> You seem to burn one calorie every time you make a step forward then back. Pretty neat. But I'm still not sure how much I trust <br /> <b>IMPACT SETTINGS:</b><br /> There are 3 different impact settings on this machine, and you can easily adjust them by getting on your hands ad knees like a dog, and shifting a wire over to a different hole. 3 holes. You also will nearly rip your fingers off if you are not careful. I began hating this machine quickly. Setting one is easy and supposedly your Grandmother can do it. Thats what Tony said on TV anyways. The glider has no impact so I honestly don't see how this is an effective work out. Setting 2 is like walking in sand, and setting 3 is hard. You got to be a manly man to withstand this one. I'm not a manly man, or even a man for that fact, but as time went on I realized this machine is sort of designed for a man. <br /> <b>MY WORKOUT:</b><br /> After working out for a few minutes my feet began to slip off of the pads. If you re-adjust your feet, it throws you off balance and could potentially cause you to fall to the ground. <i>Yeah, I really want my Grandmother to use this death trap!</i><br /> (If any old person feels the need to go onto this contraption make sure they are supervised, as falling off of it is very easy. I have fallen off more than once, and I'm pretty young and I have good balance. The issue with this machine is that it's not balance you need, it's to <b>NOT</b> move your feet from position at all! Keep your feet still in the place you first had them, and do not move them, <i>or fall</i>.) <br /> I used my Gazelle religiously when I first got it, about 45 minutes a day, and not once did I notice a difference in my body like Tony promised. That jerk! Basically if your looking for results you must put the machine on the 3rd setting and go at it for an hour a day just to see a difference. However you have to be pretty damn strong to withstand an hour of that grueling workout. <br /> What also pissed me off was how I could not stretch out completely and push the machine to the limit. This was not because I was weak or couldn't stretch, it was because if I pushed it any further, I would fall off of the machine. This would work fine for a taller person, but at 5 foot five, I consider myself pretty average. And Tony said, it's meant for everyone. <i>LIAR!</i><br /> The machines heart monitor is also a big pain in the rear. You place your finger onto this circular shaped sensor bar, and it will read your heart rate. However the machine does not come with a guide as to what a healthy heart rate should be. I'm a health retard, how should I know if my number is bad or good without a manual? <br /> The Gazelle also comes with a VHS, and on it it are lessons on how you can use the Gazelle. Tony Little of course hosts. The lessons he teaches though are for one nearly impossible to do unless you are 8 feet tall, and the rest of his lessons are dangerous, and ineffective. I cannot see how rocking back and forth is helping you loose weight and tone the body. I can do that in my chair right now, and can guarantee I will get no results no matter how long I rock. <br /> The Gazelle is not a space saver like Tony claims it is. It does fold up, yes, but folding it doesn't do very much. Its still a huge hunk of metal in the room. Good luck squeezing it into a closet. <br /> A huge issue I have with folding up is how easily you can pinch your skin on the machine. You will need 2 people to fold it up safely without tearing your skin off of your fingers. <br /> The Gazelle has two wheels, so you can roll it away somewhere. Again, the pinching issue arises, and rolling i is just dangerous. <br /> The best thing about the machine, occurs when you get off oddly enough. The best part about working out is, stopping. Haha. But on a more serious note, Tony's machine does something else. When you get off it feels as if you are still gliding when you take normal steps. It's psychedelic man! <br /> The Gazelle Elite also comes with a black water bottle, but don't worry about filling it, you will not be sweating anytime soon. They should have attached a medical kit instead. A lot of falling is involved. <br /> <b><u>OVERALL:</u></b><br /> The FitnessQuest Gazelle Glider Freestyle Elite is nothing more than a big ol' death trap for elders, and a waste of time for those looking to get a work out. It now sits in my basement next to my ridiculous Ab Lounger (another waste) collecting dust. I recommend the Gazelle to no one. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-91959005254995318272014-07-31T10:24:00.002-04:002014-07-31T10:24:14.942-04:00NIC-OUT, a Filter to Help You Quit Smoking: How Effective is it?On my quest to quitting smoking I have come across numerous items, gums, patches, and switching from mediums to lights, thinking it would help. However I sort of enjoy smoking, and this is my main problem. I know, I'm horrible. But where some enjoy high fat cinnamon buns, and french fries, I enjoy my smoke and cup of coffee every morning. <br /> However after 10 years of the same repeated pattern I noticed a wheezing in my breathing every morning, and a nasty cough that seemed to not go away. Phlegm galore, and it's not a pretty sight. <br /> While browsing for Christmas presents this past year I came across a nifty little scientific site that had tons of gadgets . One little scientific gadget stuck right out for me. <b>NIC-OUT.</b><br /> For only $6.95 I could have 30 reusable filters to put on the end of my cigarette. I could not wait to try it, the products promised low tar with more taste if I used the filters. Once attached to the end of the cigarette every drag you take removes tar and nicotine helping you in your quest to quit smoking for good. The product also promised to improve my breathing. Just what I need! <br /> I was honestly skeptical seeing how most products promising to help you quit smoke cost a miniature fortune, yet Nic-Out is only $6.95. Hmmm... <br /> Once my package came in the mail, I immediately opened the box to inspect my filters. They were clear with a small yellow tar sucking contraption placed in between them. They looked cheap, and about 5 of the 30 filters were broken. <i>So much for packed with care.</i> The filer itself is about an inch long, but does not add much of a difference to the length of the cigarette once it is in the filters resting chamber. <br /> The filter easily slid onto the end of my cigarette and held it snug. Even in harsh blowing winds, your cigarette is not going to fly away. I lit up and took my first drag. <br /> Hmm... not bad... however in order to get a drag you must suck in a lot stronger, and you don't taste very much. The flavor is still there, but it has been divided in half. I however could handle it. I noticed though that the cigarette burned out a lot faster due to my larger and heavier inhales needed just to get some smoke into my lungs. <i>(God, that sounded bad!)</i><br /> <b><i>SHOCKING!</i></b><br /> With each drag I watched as the filter collected brown gunk all around the clear walls. It was a disgusting sight, and I was shocked to see what exactly had been entering my lungs all of these years. <br /> You see the commercials, those awful commercials, but you never <i>'really'</i> think too hard about it when you are a smoker, until that tar and sticky brown gunk is right in front of your face, with a hands on demonstration you have to it back and realize yes...cigarettes are worse than I thought. <br /> Nic-Out is not 100% effective in making you quit smoking, but you will find yourself disgusted with yourself when you see whats left in the chamber after each cigarette. That may be enough to make a person want to quit smoking; or quit using the filters to try and deny it. <br /> <b><u>WHAT'S GOOD?</u></b><br /> 1. You get a close up view of exactly what kind of garbage is entering your lungs. <br /> 2. It eliminates <i>some</i> of the tar and nicotine <br /> 3. You can use the same filter for 4-5 cigarettes <br /> 4. Gives you a close up look at exactly what is going into your lungs. <br /> <b><u>WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD?</u></b><br /> 1. The filters although eliminate some of the bad, does not eliminate <i>all of the bad chemicals that still enter your lungs. </i> 2. Because the filters remove 'some' nicotine, you find yourself craving more, and smoking more. <br /> 3. Is not an effective device for helping you quit. <br /> 4. Didn't help improve my breathing like the product promised. <br /> <b>WHERE TO FIND NIC-OUT:</b><br /> I bought mine at Edmund's scientifics at <a href="http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp?pn=3085008&amp;cmss=nic+out">http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp?pn=3085008&amp;cmss=nic+out</a> just click the link to have a look for yourself. When ordering from this site expect your package in 2-3 days. <br /> <b>OVERALL:</b><br /> Nic-Out is great for eliminating a little bit of the tar and nicotine in your cigarette, but it will not be 100% effective in helping you quit smoking unless you have some really high will power. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-41642517004001749592014-07-31T10:23:00.004-04:002014-07-31T10:23:35.976-04:00Heely's Roller Skate Shoes for Adults Let's All Go Break Our AnklesAlthough he is 30, and I am 25, my boyfriend and I are the biggest kids you could ever meet. Yeah we may look all adult like but when new toys or cool gadgets come out for kids, we are the first in line to give it a try. <br /> When Heelys first came out and kids were zipping by us in local malls and streets with these shoes on wheels we had to have a pair. Turns out it took them awhile to come out with adult sizes. So we grumbled at the facts that only kids can have fun. WHY?! Why can't we have fun? Why can't I zip by on these new roller shoes? Why are all of the cool things designed for kids!? What about me!? <br /> Yep that rant sounded a bit childish, but wah, I wanted some damn Heely's! <br /> During Christmas time our wishes were granted, someone must have tipped the Santa Gods over at Heely's because here they were right before my very eyes in adult sizes in a local Foot Locker. <br /> The pink ones called out my name, while my boyfriend browsed his many colors of foot toys. I picked the pink pair up and was shocked by their $75 asking price. My boyfriends jaw also dropped when his read $80. <br /> We shrugged the price off and tried not to think about it. We took the plunge, we had to. How else were we going to be cool man? <br /> The idiotic sales woman tried giving us a demonstration on how to use them and hook the wheels on and off. This demonstration was just annoying, we just wanted to pay, get the hell out of there and put them on. We could figure out all of the stupid technical crap later. However little miss muffet thought we needed this ridiculous lesson. <br /> She first told us to get a size larger than our normal shoe size because Heely's are tighter and stiffer than a usual shoe. She was right, I went from an 8 to a 9, while Raymond needed a size 13. She then had us lace the shoes, and walk around for a moment to get a feel for them. They were different, she was right about that. It felt like I was walking with my feet nailed to wooden boards. I could tell immediately that it was going to take quite some time to break these suckers in and make them comfortable for normal walking. <br /> I wasn't interested in wheeling around in the tight packed store, so I told her we had to go. However she seemed a bit focused on Raymond. Damn hussie arse bimbos in shoe stores. <br /> I dragged him out, and we made our way home with our new stiff shoes. <br /> The Heely's came with a key. This key is to lock and unlock the wheels. This concept was annoying, because if you lost the key you had to buy a new one. It was also annoying knowing I would have to change them on a constant. You could walk around with the wheels sticking out, but it makes you lean froward and makes the way you walk look like you are tippy toeing around. <br /> At home we interlocked the wheels and tried learning how to roll about. This proved to be a dangerous lesson in balance. You see, the wheels are positioned in the back and you have to sort of lean back to get full contact with the wheel to the floor. This task was not easy, and as I began tripping and falling on a constant, I wondered, was I too old for this shoe? Were they meant for kids for a reason? Probably, but my determination drove me forward. <br /> It took hours to get comfortable wheeling around on them, and even still I felt unbalanced and wobbly. Raymond was also frustrated with the non-stop urge to zipping around like the kids do. He however gave up before I did. He basically just said they were dangerous, and didn't feel like throwing out his back. $80 down the drain. I also knew he wouldn't wear them without the wheels because of the stiff tight feeling of the shoe. <br /> I too gave up afterward, I must have fallen down at least 20 times, and the times I didn't fall down I was tripping over myself. <br /> The whole concept of adult Heely's was nice, but they were originally designed for children for a reason. If they fall they don't have to worry about breaking their hip or being out of work for a month collecting disability. <br /> I do though feel that parents should be wary about buying these over priced shoes for their kids, they still pose a danger. I would recommend buying them a pair of roller blades, at least roller blades provide support to the ankle, where Heely's do not. I feel that children will be spraining and or breaking their ankles using Heely's a lot more than they would on some sturdy blades. <br /> <i><b><br /> OVERALL:</b></i><br /> Adult Heely's and children's Heely's are just a dangerous expensive waste of money. They may look cool when you see a kid zipping by you, but once you have them on there is nothing cool about them. Unless you have patience and excellent balance they're going to be more frustrating than they will be fun. Even if you do get it down, you still run the risk of hitting a pebble or crack in the ground and landing on your face. <br /> <i><b>RECOMMENDATION:</b></i><br /> Leave them on the shelves, and go buy a pair of roller blades for half the price. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-81480114276320690812014-07-31T10:23:00.001-04:002014-07-31T10:23:09.703-04:00Parvo Killed My Dog: What Warning Signs to Look For, in My Personal ExperienceMy Flea, my love, good-bye, my sweet, my baby, my friend, I miss you, good-bye... <br /> Parvo killed my dog today. I'm an emotional wreck, I'm having a hard time even writing this down, so please bare with me. I wanted to share this now, and early, because Parvo kills fast with minor warnings, and it's this time of year when Parvo is most likely going to be spread to your dog. <br /> Parvo attacks puppies and small dogs more than it does adult dogs, but don't think your pooch is safe from Parvo just because he is older. Parvo attacks lining in the dogs intestines, which causes diarrhea which can become bloody, depression, and vomiting. If not treated fast enough the dog will lose all of it's nutrients and electrolytes. <br /> Flea died in 24 hours, thats how deadly it was. She was brought to the vet the day before and the bastards told us she was fine. The next day we brought her in again due to her being lethargic. A few hours later she died. I'd like to formally thank that the piss holes over at <i>24 hour emergency vet</i> for telling us she was fine the day before, while she suffered for the next 24 and died. Thank you. <i>You suck.</i><br /> You see, an 'I'm sorry means shit, when they're handing you back your dead dog, when less than 24 hours earlier you were told <i>'the dog has a cold, she is fine'.</i> You see an I'm sorry means <i>nothing,</i> and an I'm sorry cannot bring back what was taken from me. <br /> They diagnosed her Parvo in hours the second time we brought her back. You see, the way I see it with 24 hour vets is that they won't treat your dog with proper diagnoses if it's not half dead when you bring it in. I'm very disappointed in the care my dog received. When we brought her in the first time, she was fine, yes, sickly yes. But relatively okay. If they would have kept her a little longer, if they would have looked a little closer, they would have seen my dog was asking for help, my dog wanted help, my dog wanted life, and they carelessly miss-diagnosed her, which in the end cost her, her life. <br /> I can carry on in a pissed off manner for all I want, but really anger gets me nowhere but back to tears and punching walls. I figured I would direct my energies towards something good. A warning about Parvo, and signs to look for in your dog. <br /> Parvo is extremely contagious, and the virus can live up to 5 months if the conditions are right. It is transmitted easily. If a dog carrying Parvo pees and your dog steps in it (even 5 months later), they can get the virus. If your dog rubs noses with an infested dog, most likely he or she will get Parvo. <br /> Parvo can also be spread by eating feces containing the Parvo. There have even been cases of people giving you dog Parvo. If their dog has Parvo and pets your dog later on, the disease can be spread. <br /> So now you know how easily it spreads, and the methods to avoiding it are actually somewhat difficult. I have learned though that Parvo is most likely found in areas where lots of other dogs are, or have been. <br /> 1. City parks <br /> 2. Petco <br /> 3. The ocean or beach <br /> These are your hot Parvo spots. All areas in which dogs love, and their owners love taking them. We already have come to the conclusion that Flea picked Parvo up at the ocean 2 weeks ago, and it showed it's true colors at around day 5 after picking up the virus. <br /> Summer time is the best time for Parvo to live and spread. You bring your dog out more in the summer time. <br /> You do not need a vet to tell you what to look for when it comes to Parvo. I, the owner of a dearly beloved Chihuahua who has died from it today, am here to let you know what to look for. <br /> <b>SIGNS TO LOOK FOR:</b><br /> 1. Complete loss of appetite <br /> 2. Depression <br /> 3. Inside out sneezing <br /> 4. Weight loss <br /> 5. Diarrhea will come out when the Parvo is at it's worst stage. Vomiting is also present at this time, but if you notice the warning signs BEFORE this occurs, you have a much greater chance at saving your dog. Diarrhea and vomiting is what will eventually kill the dog. Loss of electrolytes which will result in death in a fast manner. <br /> <b><i>IDIOTIC DOG OWNERS:</i></b><br /> After Flea died I went online and actually found an entire slew of people who claim their dogs have Parvo yet these owners do not have the money to afford the bill. This pissed me off more than the death of my dog. Knowing there are more dogs literately starving to death because of a selfish owner. Parvo causes diarrhea and vomiting, the death these dogs suffer is equivalent to starving them! <br /> I was reading forums about stupid careless owners giving drops of bleach to their Parvo dogs to kill the virus! This is completely untrue, giving your dog bleach will kill it faster than the Parvo. Whomever the sick bastard is that recommended this should be shot. <br /> You are supposed to wash YOURSELF with bleach and water if you think you may have come in contact with a Parvo infected dog. Don't let your dog drink it! <br /> Take your dog to the vet if you know it's got Parvo, don't try to cure it yourself by using some deathly method recommended online! <br /> If you cannot afford a $3,000 bill, than you should never have gotten a dog. My dog, who is now dead left me with a bill for $3,000. Luckily I was smart enough to know that pet care sells pet insurance for only $17 a month. All you dog owners out there should sign up now if you know what's good for your dog, and for your budget. It breaks my heart to read about poor pet owners who don;'t give a damn about their dogs well being. It sickens me really. <br /> <b><i>VACCINATIONS FOR PARVO:</i></b><br /> I have read, and was told by the vet that a Parvo vaccination is not fail proof, and they are still unaware of whether or not it could save a dogs life who gets Parvo. <br /> Basically the Parvo vaccination is a waste of money. <br /> <b><i>STOP THE SPREAD IN YOUR HOME:</i></b><br /> If one of your dogs has Parvo you must clean everything with bleach and water. Bedding, furniture, toys, floors, and even the yard. In the yard be sure to hose it down, and pick up any feces you can find. <br /> Soak the yard in bleach, it will kill the grass yes, but wouldn't you rather have a dead lawn than a dead dog? <br /> <b>FACTS:</b><br /> 1. Adult dogs can be carrying Parvo without it even effecting them. If an adult dog is has runny feces keep them the hell away from smaller puppies and dogs. <br /> 2. Parvo cannot be spread to cats, only other dogs. <br /> 3. Your dog has a 50/50 chance that he or she will die from Parvo. <br /> <b><i>Warnings:</i></b><br /> Don't always trust your vet, I should have known better, I knew something was definitely wrong, but when the vet said she was fine I took her word for it. You know your pet, if they are not acting themselves force them to diagnose the dog again! Keep a close eye on your dog when they are acting out of character, any odd signs is a trip to the vet. <i><b>Don't wait!</b></i><br /> Overall, this piece was not to make you paranoid, it was to make you aware. Just because the vet says a dog is fine, it does not always mean they are. Be sure to <i>MAKE</i> them check for Parvo if you notice your dog is not acting the way it normally does. It is more widespread then people are even aware of, and I honestly knew nothing about it, until my dog died. <br /> <b><i>Rest In Peace Flea </i></b> <br /> January 21st 2007 - July 3rd 2007 <br /> Update. 2 More of our dogs contracted the virus, and have joined Flea up in puppy heaven. <br /> <b><i>Tootsie-</i></b> February 20th 2006 - July 6th 2007 <br /> <b><i>Putt-Putt</i></b> -February 18th 2005 - July 7th 2007 A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-77931301969809707242014-07-31T10:20:00.004-04:002014-07-31T10:20:54.570-04:00Ecosphere: Making a Community of Self Sufficient Organisms A Guide on How to Make Yourself an Ecosphere<div class="content_area" id="content_article"> <b><u>SO WHAT IS AN ECOSPHERE?</u></b> An ecospehre is basically a self sufficient community living in harmony with other organisms. The organisms that live in ecospheres do not require human interaction such as feeding. <br /> However these enclosed globes do require very little cleaning, and it is a lot easier than you think. It requires magnets. One to will be placed inside of the sphere, and one on the outside. You drag the magnet inside to clean the walls in the ecosphere. <br /> <b><u>THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A $300 ECOSPHERE, AND ONE YOU CAN MAKE FOR PENNIES ON THE DOLLAR:</u></b><br /> <b><i>None!</i></b> <br /> I know the ones that you see in the photographs is all cutie pahtootie, but you too can make one very similar, if not better than the ecospheres dealer's are selling now. <br /> The organism that most site only include harboring shrimp. The ecosystem never contains any other organisms, and well... <i>thats just boring!</i><br /> I have made ecospeheres with all sorts of 3 eyed creatures, and odd shaped corals that have simply formed with time., living in harmony with up to 10 other organism in the sphere. <br /> <b><u>SO WHERE DO WE START?</u></b><br /> There are 2 ways that it is best to make your very own ecosphere. For beginners I recommend a large pickle jar, and for those of you wanting a more attractive method of making your own ecospheres, I have done extensive research in finding the best priced spheres on the market. If you visit the link I am providing you will find unfinished snow globes. A kit if you will. The globes can be found here: <a href="http://www.nationalartcraft.com/subcategory.asp?gid=6&amp;cid=37&amp;scid=54">http://www.nationalartcraft.com/subcategory.asp?gid=6&amp;cid=37&amp;scid=54</a>, or here at <a href="http://www.seashells.com/snowglob.htm">http://www.seashells.com/snowglob.htm</a>. The first link however has different assorted sizes. <br /> Next you decide whether or not you want a fresh water, or salt water environment. Hmm... okay have you chosen? <i>Good, good, great!</i> Fresh water tends to contain more organisms than salt water when it comes to ecospheres, so for starters you should honestly go with fresh water. Or heck, get creative and do both at the same time. <br /> But first, you will need a living plant. You can buy one at any pet or fish store, or you could even cut a branch from a tree to stick into your globes. A water plant though would be best. These plants will provide the oxygen needed to keep your organisms alive. Basically your plant is the key to life. You will also need two magnets. One will be placed in your globe, and the other keep with you, or nearby the globe when its finished. The magnets are used for cleaning walls of the globe when they become dirty. <br /> Next take a bucket, and fill it with water. Salt water from the sea, or fresh water from a pond/river/lake. Do be sure to add in some of the sea bed. (A small scoop of sand.) <br /> Pour your water, and sand into your globes and seal it up. Make sure you put your plant in first, and your magnets. Also feel free to decorate however you'd like. Add a tree branch or 2 for an eerie effect, add pebbles or sand to make things pretty. <i>Do make sure you cleaned them throughly first though.</i> Also leave a small air pocket at the top of the globe. <i>Do not overfill.</i><br /> <b><u>SEALING THE GLOBE:</u></b><br /> A glue gun will do the trick. Check for any leaks, if it leaks do a double seal with the glue gun, and your globe will now be finished. It's a lot easier than it sounds. Wait for the glue to fully dry before tipping it right side up. <br /> <b><u>WATER:</u></b><br /> The water will be cloudy at first, and by the next day should be clear, with any algae settling to the bottom. This algae is needed for your organisms to eat. You may already see captured organisms. <br /> The first sphere I ever completed I was able to observe at least 4 different organisms swimming happily in their new home. <br /> Within a month I was able to count at least 15 different organisms with unique looks within my sphere. It ranged from small snails, to sponges that stuck to the sides of the tank with starfish like hands, swimming pod like creatures with whiskers, and many more odd, yet interesting creatures. <br /> It was like a sea monkey tank gone wild. <br /> <b><u>LIFE:</u></b><br /> It happens in stages. My creatures all got to a larger size, and eventually died. However many of them left babies behind, and the babies would live off of the algae and dead organisms. The cycle is non-stop so long as you don't screw it up. <br /> 1. If you see to much green algae, place your globe into a dark place. This will kill off some of the algae. If there is not enough algae your organisms will die. If you see a lac of green, place it in indirect sunlight. Such as a windowsill where light can get in a few hours a day. Once you have at least 30% algae in the tank, your good to place the globe where you want. A work desk is always a pretty place to put it, and will always work up conversation even with the toughest of customers. <br /> 2. Brown algae will sometimes form on the glass. This is why you have a magnet. The magnets will make a connection through the glass. Simply touch one magnet to the other and slowly drag it across dirty areas to clean them off. <br /> 3. Do not open your globe. It is a community in complete harmony now, and any air could kill your whole fleet. If the water looks low, don't worry, condensation will form and it will go back to normal. <br /> 4. Don't shake the globe man! <br /> 5. Do not leave in extreme cold temperatures. Room temp is fine, anything colder could kill the organisms. <br /> 6. Feeding is not required, the organisms will live off of algae. <br /> Now that you got the don't down, simply enjoy observing your new pets. They are ore entertaining than one would think, and each of your organisms have their own unique personalities and swimming patterns. This also makes for an excellent science fair project for you to work on with your kids. <br /> <i><b>MAKE SOME MONEY:</b></i><br /> <i>Having a yard sale?</i> Ecospheres make for an excellent side income if you know how to butter them up and make them look attractive. The cost to you, is only the cost of the globe itself. The plant life you can find in ponds if you look hard enough. Sites on the net now are selling spheres for $60-$300. <br /> So you make one for $15 and sell it for $40 or more. The profit is high, and they go fast. You will seriously have people asking...<i>'when will you have more'.</i> <br /> They sell out fast, but are easy to make, so honestly you can't loose. <br /> Don't forget to mention the retail value, and let them know they're getting a 'deal'. Ahh... t<i>he power of pond water.</i><br /> </div>A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-87572106346792869172014-07-31T10:20:00.001-04:002014-07-31T10:20:12.105-04:00Keeping Your Pets Cool in Hot Summer MonthsPeople suffer from heat exhaustion, people have even died from it, and it would be ignorant to think that your pets are safe from such a tragedy. The reality is; thousands of pets die every year due to heat exhaustion. <br /> I don't know how many times I have called the cops because I have seen careless owners leaving their pets in the car while they go shopping. A pet is equivalent to a helpless infant. Would you leave your infant in the car? <i>The answer is NO!</i> So don't do it to your pets either. Cars easily heat up and hit record highs within minutes. <br /> You get hot in the summer time don't you? Well, so do your pets, and it would be cruel to ignore that fact. <br /> I am going to provide tips on how to make sure your pet stays cool and healthy all summer long, and does not suffer from heat exhaustion or dehydration. <br /> 1. Never under any circumstances leave your pet in a car. Not even for a minute. Carry him or her in the store with you. If the shop owners have an issue with it, tie him up outside. Do not leave him there for more than a few minutes. <br /> 2. Brining your dog to the beach or ocean is always fun. The dog loves it, you love it. But your animal also runs the risk of dehydrating. Bring a container filled with water with you. They sell water bottles that fold out into drinking trays for really cheap. Buy one if you plan on brining your dog to the beach with you. <br /> 3. Bring ice when you take your dog out with you. Ice cubes can be rubbed on their body and skin for a quick cooling sensation they will enjoy. <br /> 4. Never leave your dog outside on extremely hot days. If you do be sure your dog has plenty, and I mean plenty of water and food handy. Also make sure it is in a shaded area. Honestly on hot days like this it is best to leave your dog inside. <i>Why risk it?</i><br /> 5. Your pet enjoys walks, and as an owner, you too should enjoy taking them for walks. Do make sure you bring cold water, and ice cubes in the water. <br /> 6. On hot summer days you can also spritz your pet with a water spritzer. You can buy these in any local CVS, or pet store for a mere $7. <br /> 7. Cooling treats are also available in any local supermarket. Believe it or not these cooling treats are in the same location you'd find your ice cream. Thats right, <i>ice cream for pets</i>. Freeze them when you bring them home. These treats come in frozen Popsicle's of beef or chicken flavor, or as ice cream cups in beef, peanut butter or chicken flavor as well. The dog will enjoy them, while it also cools them off. <br /> 8. If it's hot out, spray him with the hose, or let him run through the sprinkler. It may sound mean, but the animal will enjoy it, and it will provide a good solid hour or so of cooling relief from the hot weather. <br /> 9. Take them swimming. <i>Get them wet</i>. If your going to the beach with your dog, don't just have them running around like maniacs, this could cause heat exhaustion. <br /> 10. If you notice fast beating breathing and panting, be sure to get them water immediately! Dogs sweat through their mouths and noses, excess panting causes drooling, which can equal to a loss of water in the body and <i>fast.</i><br /> 11. If you notice any strange behavior, bring your animal to the vet as soon as possible! Don't sit around observing while your dog suffers. <br /> Hey, cats get hot too. Follow the same procedures. Keep your cats indoors during the day. Make sure there is plenty of water in bowls around the home for your cat to come to when needed. Cats hate water, but don't be afraid to give em a good squirt with the hose on hot summer days. <br /> While you are at it, you should also fill any bird baths. <i>Yes Gods creatures get hot too</i>, providing them a bathing and drinking area is good karma waiting to happen. <br /> The key to making sure your pet is healthy all summer long, is to simply make sure there is plenty of water around, shading, and that they are kept cool. A few easy simple steps could save your animals life. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1788162905285268300.post-11103319308758111732014-07-31T10:17:00.002-04:002014-07-31T10:17:18.833-04:00Top 10 Reasons Why Optimum Online SucksI thought when I made the change over from dial up to high speed cable internet access, I would love it. Don't get me wrong though, I did love it at first. I loved how I could sign on and not get booted if the wind would blow, or the phone rang. I loved how web pages would load up almost instantly, I loved how fast I could download videos and music. I was all about optimum, but things took a huge drastic change when I had an issue, and when my bill went from the introductory price of $29.99 to $45.99. <br /> I figured I would keep optimum, even though the price was absolutely ridiculous and inflated, I figured it most likely is worth it, and that it's drab homepage would improve in due time. Only it never did, no matter how many times Optimum emails me saying to check out their <i>'new look'</i>. I'm having a hard time figuring out what the hell is so new about it. However these stupid changes are the least of my issues, here are my 10 top reasons why I hate Optimum online. <br /> 1. Their email system just blows. I don't know how many times I have tried to sign on, only to have the web page to start blinking at the top of my page over, and over again. It's stuck. Great, it isn't doing diddly squat. These issues happened a LOT right before they introduced their <i>'new look'</i>. It's almost as if they were using their customers service in vain. No it is not okay to cut off my email for 4 hours! <br /> 2. Their greed tactics. I was not interested in spending another $150 in creating a wireless network, so I called cable and asked them if they could just send me another modem for my brother to use in his room, that way we didn't have to constantly unplug and re-plug the one we had to share. I was basically, and rudely told, that if I wanted another modem, they would charge me an additional $45.00 a month! Would you believe that B.S!? Yet with dial up, I could plug in as many damn machines as I wanted without constantly plugging, and re-plugging. Pretty shady how they would charge another $45.00 a month! I already pay for the service in ONE home, why should I pay for the same service twice in the SAME home, does that make any sense!? I really, truly would LOVE optimum to email me, and answer this question. <br /> 3. Their hidden offers! We signed up over the phone, and pretty much got service, and a bill every month like anyone else. However after seeing a commercial, the very same day we placed our order Optimum was giving away a free wireless router, to anyone who signed up 'online'. This offer was not available if you signed up over the phone. Pretty messed up, you would think that they would want to please all of their customers, but they hide these offers so less people know about them. When we asked for a free router, we pretty much were told to take a hike. Man Optimum, <i>I hated you at hello.</i><br /> 4. Their annoying phone calls asking us to go with triple play. We have cable TV, and optimum online, but we do not wish to have their phone service. We do not wish for triple play. We DO wish to keep things the way they are, without a phone call every single God damn day right as we start dinner asking us to upgrade our service! If we want an upgrade WE will call YOU. The non-stop calls are nearly forcing us to quit the cable service all together. <br /> 5. I hate that I don't have choices when I send an email. I must always send a black and white email, I must always have one font. I mean hell, Optimum charges their customers $45+ a month, and can't give us some green or blue colors in our emails. What gives? <br /> 6. Their lack of online customer support. Hah! I have been a member for quite some time now, and still figuring out how to contact someone online is close to impossible, and really a pain in the rear. There should be an easy to read <b>CONTACT US</b> link on the left side of the screen on their home page. <br /> 7. The lack of knowing how to <i>'change my password'.</i> Optimum will email you to warn you to change your password periodically, but they forgot to tell it's customers how! It is obviously some deeply hidden link that I have yet to discover, no matter how many times I have gone link diving. <br /> 8. How they never, ever listen to what their customers want. They just add in these lame drab features without even asking what their people want. Pretty stupid business tactics if you ask me. I would have rather of had a fully customizable email system, not a stupid customized homepage. <br /> 9. Customizations disappear. That's right, Optimum has spent all this time creating a new look to the homepage, yet the new look, looks the same, and they give you options to customize what you see on this home page. However at least once a month everything you set to view will reset itself. Re-applying the customizations is just a waste of time, seeing how in due time they're going to vanish all over again. <br /> 10. Last but not least, is the way customer service treats you when you have an issue. When you call optimum online while you are having connectivity issues, they will tell you to call the manufacturer of your PC, and the manufacturer will tell you to call Optimum. I don't understand why they just won't take the time to actually HELP their PAYING customers get connected, instead of giving them the run around! God forbid you want to quit early, they will jack you up for an early termination fee! <br /> There are my top 10 reasons on why I hate optimum online services. I wish they would give me some reasons to write a 'top 10 things I love about Optimum online', but they haven't, and honestly I don't think they are going to any time soon. A Girlnoreply@blogger.com0